TYLER (KYTX) - Pat Mallory retired as a pastor to begin her long-time dream of opening up a day shelter for the homeless.
"A lady in the church said, 'who are those people?' And, I said 'They're your Christian brothers and sisters.'"
It's a problem growing in Tyler, from 243 homeless in 2011 to 257 in 2012- a 5% increase, but one that inches up every year.
Mallory hopes to change that, offering free haircuts, showers, computers to fill out resumes and job applications. Gateway to Hope will even provide outfits and stage mock interviews.
"It's better to get them back on their feet and get them working, and their children will be working. And then, you have less people who you have to help." says Mallory.
And, that's something positive for everyone.
"I've seen them turn into productive citizens who are making a contribution back to our economy, rather than being a drain on the economy." says Mallory.
"Gateway to Hope is going to be great for the City of Tyler." says resident Kathryn Hurst. "It's going to be wonderful."
Gateway to Hope begins offering free services on Labor Day. It's at the corner of Valentine and Carlyle streets. Services are provided through volunteerism and community donations.
