Crosswalk soon opens new shelter designed by youth

 

For nearly four decades, Crosswalk has stood as a refuge for Spokane's youth experiencing homelessness. Now a long-awaited move is closer to reality as construction on its new building nears completion for its opening in August.

"Since 1985, it has been more than just a shelter. It has been a lifeline," said Sherrece Scott, annual giving manager for Volunteers of America (VOA) Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.

"Within its walls, young people find not only a safe place to sleep but also the support of case managers, educators and behavioral health counselors who help them navigate the complexities of trauma, disrupted education and the ever-present threat of exploitation," she said.

Because Crosswalk is the only licensed emergency youth shelter in the region, "the need for its services has never been greater," Sherrece added.

As Spokane has grown and changed, so too have the challenges faced by the young people who walk through Crosswalk's doors. The downtown location, once a safe haven, has become increasingly dangerous, and the building at 525 W. 2nd Ave. can no longer support the full range of services youth need to thrive.

Crosswalk has outgrown its current space.

In response, Volunteers of America took on the mission to create a shelter designed for youth by youth. Bridget Cannon, a staff member who started working with Crosswalk youth and moved into administrative leadership, helped guide the effort over her 32 years there.

In 2018, conceptual planning for a new facility began, with one critical voice leading the way—the young people themselves.

When asked to imagine their ideal Crosswalk, they spoke of a home in a neighborhood away from the stress of downtown, surrounded by green spaces and close to schools. They wanted a place that felt like a fresh start, where they could be seen as kids first, not just as homeless youth.

That vision is becoming a reality. This fall, Crosswalk will open its doors in a new location adjacent to Spokane Community College, Chief Garry Park, CHAS Health and the VOA Young Adult Shelter (YAS).

"It's an ideal setting that blends stability, accessibility and opportunity," Sherrece said.

The new Crosswalk is more than a building.

"It's a statement of dignity and belonging. Bright, modern and filled with natural light, the shelter is designed to foster healing and growth, and to empower those who come," she said.

The first floor will house a welcoming shelter space, featuring shared areas that encourage community and connection.

On the second floor, private dorm-style rooms will provide comfort and dignity for youth working toward independence, whether they attend school or are starting their first jobs.

"Crosswalk's mission has always been about more than providing a place to stay. It's about breaking the cycle of homelessness," Sherrece explained.

The new facility offers the same life-changing resources that have helped so many young people succeed, but now in a space designed to enhance the services.

Youth will have access to educational support, behavioral health counseling, substance use recovery resources, job readiness programs and a sense of stability they can rely on.

"We're providing a community response to a growing need," Sherrece said. "The urgency behind Crosswalk's relocation is clear."

Last year, 604 young people came to Crosswalk seeking safety. VOA provided more than 11,000 meals, helped 15 students earn their GED, reunited 380 youth with family and secured housing for 187 individuals.

"The numbers only tell part of the story," Sherrece said. "Each statistic represents a young person who needed a chance and someone to believe in them.

"Crosswalk's new home is a testament to what is possible when a community listens, collaborates and acts. It is a promise kept, a sanctuary built not just for youth but with them, ensuring that every detail speaks to their needs and potential," she added.

As the doors open this fall, a new chapter begins not just for VOA or Crosswalk but also for every young person who steps inside and finally hears the words they have been waiting for: "You are safe. You are home."

In addition to reporting on the new building, Sherrece shared the sad news that long-time staff member Bridget, who has embodied Crosswalk's mission and was excited about the new building, will not be there. She passed away unexpectedly on March 3.

Sherrece shared some of her own reflections and comments of other staff.

"Her name has been synonymous with Crosswalk as she poured her heart and soul into ensuring Spokane's most vulnerable youth had what they needed to survive and thrive," she said. "From early years, Bridget was a fierce advocate, mentor, leader and above all, friend to countless youth and staff.

"Her passion and dedication set the foundation for the shelter's future. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who work and volunteer there to carry her vision forward," Sherrece said. "Her passion, dedication, resilience and compassion impacted countless lives. Those who worked with her remember her leadership, humanity and heart."

Security program manager TJ Regalado, who has been at VOA 12 years, said: "She empowered me to fight for something the right way. Her encouragement meant the world to me. She taught me the reason we do what we do. Her passion was infectious. I will never forget what our mission is."

Bridget's influence stretched beyond day-to-day operations, as Brandon Martin, COO, shared: "I thrive on structure, while she embraced thinking outside the box. Without trying, she broadened my thinking and sharpened my ability to engage in new ways. Her ideas were insightful and contagious, sparking curiosity and reflection I had not expected. While she was eager to learn from me, I learned much from her."

Wendy Alderson, director of shelters, appreciated Bridget as an "inspiring boss and mentor. Over the years, she taught me so much, professionally and personally. Her passion for the young people she served was undeniable, and her ability to build rapport with them and meet them where they were was inspiring," Wendy commented. "She was a great listener, always asking the hard questions that encouraged me to think for myself. She supported me through many challenges, let me fail and reminded me that if I wasn't failing, I wasn't truly learning."

Sherrece added that Bridget's own words echo her dedication: "When I eventually retire, I'll likely continue to volunteer with Crosswalk."

While she did not live to retire, that statement captures her commitment.

"Her influence will continue to guide Crosswalk's mission to everyone who steps through its doors," Sherrece said. "As we move forward with Crosswalk 2.0, we do so knowing that Bridget's spirit lives in every corner, every story and every success that comes from the place she helped shape."

For information, call 862-4877 or email sscott@voaspokane.org.