Story and photo by Greg Miley, Speakin’ Out News staff writer and photographer
Huntsville, AL – First Stop, a dedicated agency serving the homeless community in Huntsville, celebrated the grand opening of its latest facility at 206 Stokes Street on Thursday, February 1, 2024.
Since its establishment in 2008, First Stop has steadfastly supported Huntsville’s homeless population, offering essential services such as meals, urgent provisions, and guidance towards self- sufficiency. The newly inaugurated facility is poised to enhance the organization’s outreach by providing indoor dining, shower facilities, a state-of- the-art computer lab, enrichment classes, and a collaborative medical clinic operated in partnership with Thrive Alabama. Mental health services, facilitated by Wellstone, will also be available to those in need.
First Stop’s mission, encapsulated in the phrase “ENCOUNTERS, CONNECTS, EMPOWERS,” underscores its commitment to meeting individuals experiencing homelessness where they are, linking them to vital services, and fostering their journey toward independent and sustainable living.
Volunteer contributions and donations remain integral to First Stop’s operations. For those interested in supporting the cause or seeking further information, First Stop can be contacted at 256-533-3391 or at operations@firststop.org.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, a symbol of hope and progress, featured prominent figures, including Madison County Commission Chair Mac McCutcheon, Huntsville Community Development Manager Scott Erwin, esteemed board members Paul Freeman, Taylor Reed, and Craig Seabrook, alongside District Three Councilwoman Jennie Robinson, Jennifer Geist, Executive Director of First Stop, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, and District Five Councilman John Meredith, and Tim Davis, another distinguished board member.
