Smart move
Merging their missions was a good move for two agencies that serve Lawrence's homeless.
The announced merger of two agencies that serve homeless people in Lawrence is a positive step.
One of the ongoing problems cited with local services for the homeless is that they are fragmented and poorly coordinated. Lots of well-meaning people are trying to help, but sometimes their efforts seem a bit scattershot.
The Lawrence Open Shelter and Community Drop-In Center, are taking a step in the right direction by merging their agencies under one director. They already share the same building at 10th and Kentucky streets and many of the same clients.
Congratulations to the groups for recognizing the obvious advantages to uniting their agencies. With one board, one director and one budget, the new agency will be in a position to provide more and better services to the people its director respectfully refers to as “guests.”
Other agencies that provide a wide range of social services in Lawrence should take note. By collaborating with other agencies that have similar missions, they may be able to increase their efficiency and their clout in the community.