Frequently Asked Questions
Our mission is to provide emergency overnight sleeping space that is safe, respectful, and restful for homeless women in our community through partnership with the Council of Service Providers to the Homeless in response to the urgent need for emergency shelter during the winter months and in response to the call of Jesus Christ to serve one another.
Our mission is to provide emergency overnight sleeping space that is safe, respectful, and restful for homeless women in our community through partnership with the Council of Service Providers to the Homeless in response to the urgent need for emergency shelter during the winter months and in response to the call of Jesus Christ to serve one another.
Where is CU at Austin's Place located?
CU at Austin’s Place is housed at504 N. Market Street in Champaign. The entrance for CU at Austin's Place is on the WEST side of the building at the corner of Washington and Market Streets.
Who can come to Austin's Place?
Any woman who needs a safe place to sleep is welcome at Austin’s Place. Women may enter any time of night and can stay for as many nights as they need shelter.
Can I leave my things?
No. Austin’s Place closes each morning at 7AM, and women are expected to take all of their belongings with them when they exit in the morning.
Is CU at Austin's Place ever full?
No. We do have a capacity of 14 and we are spaced appropriately per the CDC guidelines for COVID.
What time can I come to Austin's Place?
We are open every night from 8pm-7am. You can come any time of night. There is a doorbell to ring after 8PM.
What if I need help after hours? Who can I call?
Please call our outreach team. Our emergency assistance hotline is: 217-888-0329.
Do you have showers or laundry facilities?
Yes. CU at Austin's Place has showers, laundry, and bed!
Shower and laundry facilities are also available at The Phoenix, which is open from noon-5pm, every Tuesday-Friday. The Phoenix is located at 70 E. Washington Street in Champaign. Please see that information here: https://www.cuathome.us/phoenix-drop-in-center/
Shower and laundry facilities are also available at The Phoenix, which is open from noon-5pm, every Tuesday-Friday. The Phoenix is located at 70 E. Washington Street in Champaign. Please see that information here: https://www.cuathome.us/phoenix-drop-in-center/
Do you need volunteers?
We currently are not using volunteers for working with CU t Austin’s Place (we will at a later date). However, our partners at CU at Home would love a hand.
- You can join the Volunteer Text Group by texting "HelpCU" to 844-939-3727.
- See their volunteer page here: https://www.cuathome.us/volunteer/
Are you accepting physical donations?
Please contact Jennifer (jennifer@cuathome.us or call 217-819-4569) for the latest list of shelter needs and to arrange donation deliveries. Monetary donations are welcome. See the question below.
Can I donate?
Yes! Please see our donations page here: http://shelter-austinsplace.weebly.com/donations-appreciated.html
