Franciscan Outreach breaks ground on non-congregate shelter redevelopment at 2508 W. 21st

Franciscan Outreach recently celebrated the groundbreaking of a major renovation project at its newly acquired facility at 2508 W. 21st Street. Located on a midblock site between S. Rockwell St and S. Western Ave, the site is currently home to an existing one- and two-story building that will be transformed to increase the organization’s capacity to deliver comprehensive support to individuals experiencing homelessness.

“This is more than a building—it’s a promise,” said Robret Simpson, Executive Director of Franciscan Outreach. “A promise to meet people where they are, and to create a space of dignity, stability, and hope. We are deeply grateful to our public and private partners who have helped bring this vision to life.”

Designed by LBBA Architects, the 45,000-sf vacant building will be redeveloped into a 120-bed non-congregate shelter with supportive service space for people experiencing homelessness in partnership with the Department of Housing (DOH) Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition program. 

The building plans include a complete interior build-out of the furthest east building to establish non-congregate shelter space, including dorm-style sleeping room configurations of 2-4 sleeping rooms with a shared bathroom, an elevator installation, and dining and community space, all of which is planned to be accessible. 

The next building will be rehabbed to create staff space, offices for case management, and an intake and entry space. The third building will become flex space for congregate shelter beds, and will also hold a commercial kitchen, laundry, and shared bathrooms. The furthest west building will be adapted to establish more services space, including space for partner organizations to support residents. 

Additionally, any other repairs required per the building conditions report to bring the building up to a state of good repair are included in the scope – this includes updating mechanicals, replacing the roof, and other building system improvements. The project location was selected based on proximity to public transit, improving access to transportation for appointments, training, and employment. 

The $25.5 million project is expected to be funded with a $7.5 million DOH grant, $15 million in TIF funding, and $3 million in philanthropy and grantee equity.

With a renovation permit already issued and the groundbreaking celebrated, general contractor Walsh Construction can commence work to redevelop the site. Construction is expected to wrap up in July 2026.