Hope Starts with Shelter
Services in Anderson for Those Seeking Shelter
When someone in Anderson, IN is facing homelessness, they need more than a place to stay—they need stability, support, and the opportunity to rebuild. That’s why The Christian Center offers more than emergency shelter. We provide specialized housing programs designed to meet people where they are and walk with them toward lasting change.
Our Shelter Programs Are Built Around People—Not Just Beds
We believe that transformation happens through trust, structure, and relationship. Every person we serve has a story, and every story deserves a second chance.
From men struggling with addiction to single mothers escaping crisis, our shelters serve people throughout Madison County, including nearby communities like Pendleton, Anderson, and Westfield.
Men’s Emergency Shelter & Recovery Program
Our faith-based men’s recovery program offers long-term housing and life restoration for men overcoming homelessness, addiction, or instability.
Residents receive:
- Safe, stable shelter
- 3 meals daily through our Community Dining Room
- Biblical teaching and spiritual guidance through Chapel Services
- Individualized case management and peer support
- Work therapy, job training, and life skills classes
- Support for housing, employment, and reentry planning
The program typically lasts 18–24 months, and men work closely with staff to set personalized goals. Intake is available onsite at 625 Main Street or through referral.
The Well – Women & Children’s Emergency Shelter
The Well is the only shelter in Madison County exclusively serving women and their children. It exists to provide safety, healing, and a path forward for families in crisis.
Women staying at The Well receive:
- Secure housing for themselves and their children
- Warm meals through our kitchen partnership
- Trauma-informed care and emotional support
- Case management to access benefits, housing, and jobs
- Parenting resources, job readiness, and life skills
- Referrals to healthcare, childcare, and education support
If you are a woman with children experiencing homelessness or fleeing crisis, fill out our confidential intake form or call us to start the process. We prioritize safety and privacy for every woman who enters our care.
Red Door Vintage
Red Door Vintage is a community thrift boutique supporting The Christian Center’s mission. Every donated item and purchase funds meals, shelter, and programs for neighbors in need—making it easy to shop with heart and give with purpose.
The Chapel
Our non-denominational chapel is open to all who seek spiritual encouragement. With music, prayer, and biblical teaching, our services offer peace and purpose to residents and visitors alike, reminding us that healing begins from the inside out.
Community Dining Room
We serve free hot meals daily to anyone in need—no questions asked. From seniors on fixed incomes to families between paychecks, our dining room is a place to sit, eat, and be treated with kindness and dignity.
The
Eleos Center
We offer practical programs that meet people where they are—from hot meals and shelter to hygiene services and spiritual care—all rooted in dignity and hope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ID to stay at the shelter?
We encourage guests to bring any form of ID they have, but lack of ID is not a barrier to receiving emergency help. Our case managers can assist with obtaining documents once you're in the program.
Can couples or families stay together?
Our facilities are separated by program type. The Well provides housing for women and their children. Men are served through a separate program. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate adult couples or co-ed families in shared housing—but we’ll help connect you to options when possible.
Are meals included with shelter programs?
Yes. All residents and shelter guests receive free meals through our Community Dining Room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.
Is there a cost to stay at the shelter?
No, our shelter programs are completely free to those in need—we're here to provide a safe haven without any financial burden, because we believe everyone deserves support during difficult times. If you'd like to give back, you have the option to volunteer somewhere on our campus instead of paying to stay, helping us create a community of care and compassion for all.
What’s the difference between short-term shelter and the recovery program?
Short-term stays may be available for emergency needs, but our goal is long-term transformation. The Men’s Recovery Program offers a structured path to stability over 12–24 months. For women, The Well serves as both an emergency and transitional space depending on the situation.
How long can I stay?
Length of stay depends on the program. Men in recovery may stay up to two years while working toward independence. Women and children at The Well typically stay until a housing or job solution is in place. Emergency stays are shorter and reviewed regularly.
Do I have to be religious to stay at The Christian Center?
No. We welcome everyone, regardless of faith background. However, our programs do include chapel services and spiritual support.
What if I’m not from Anderson or Madison County?
We prioritize individuals within our county but will serve others based on availability. If we can’t admit someone due to capacity or restrictions, we’ll help with referrals whenever possible.
Why can’t The Christian Center accept sex offenders?
Because of our proximity to parks and residential areas, we are legally restricted from housing registered sex offenders. We understand this is difficult and will work to provide referrals if available.