A decrease in funding and contributions for the Open Door has led to financial struggles for

the homeless shelter at 136 West Third Street in Junction City.

Open Door Director Flora Lewis noted in the past they have had struggles, but now those are “intense.” Lewis stated that they need financial help. “We need help from the community, from organizations, from churches, from individuals to help us keep the lights on, pay our utility bills, and to be able to feed the individuals that are there.”

Lewis noted funds have been cut for many of the service organizations. There have been funding reductions for the Open Door from an emergency shelter grant, United Way, and Geary County. “Before different organizations, churches, and individuals would give on a monthly basis, but I understand that times are rough for everyone right now and so they’re not giving the way they were.”

The Open Door is currently providing shelter to 10 homeless people.

” I am appealing to the community to please help financially the Open Door, because we are in desperate need.

Lewis confirmed the Open Door is operating in the red right now, and will need at least $10,000 to get back on a profitable footing to get the facility through to the end of the year.

A putt-putt golf fundraiser is planned Saturday, Oct. 4 at the putt-putt course adjacent to Spin City on South Washington. The hours for the fundraiser will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The price to play will be $12 for those 18 or older, and $10 for those under 18.  There will be free food available for those participating in the event.