AUSTIN, Texas — People experiencing homelessness in Austin have a new resource where they can kick back and relax.
The nonprofit Urban Alchemy, which runs the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) and the Eighth Street Shelter, is transforming the downtown parking lot into a place where people can have water, coffee and food, or simply get away from the heat.
However, despite its name, "The Oasis" will provide more than a reprieve from another brutal Central Texas summer.
"Our program is based on love, compassion and respect," Urban Alchemy's Director of Operations Kevin Lee said. "We're trying to clean the streets up ... a lot of people experiencing homelessness don't have nowhere to go, so we're trying to provide that place for them ... and not be discriminated against."
Lee said the parking lot wasn't technically open yet, but once people started showing up, they began assisting guests. It's currently only open between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. but will eventually become a 24-hour, permanent facility where Urban Alchemy can provide guests resources or even a bed if one is available at either shelter.
There have also been some challenges for the nonprofit in setting up the location. According to Lee, the California-based organization initially put tents in the parking lot before storms blew the tents over the fence and into the streets. Now crews are installing "sheds" that are bolted into the ground, along with artificial grass and plants to give it an "oasis" feel.
Lee said Urban Alchemy also plans to bring a shower trailer in from California that will allow guests to take a shower without staff needing to escort guests inside the facility. There are also plans to install a mural and a dog park.
"It has to do with empathy," Lee said. "We put ourselves in their shoes and meet them where they're at, so we can provide that service."