Plans for the Safe Haven homeless shelter in Fort Madison, Iowa have been put on hold following the death of project leader Jon Heyland late last year.
The proposed shelter would have created 40 beds in the former St. Mary’s convent on Avenue E, offering temporary housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness. The property had been transferred to a nonprofit.
Supporters said the facility aimed to provide a safe, structured environment with staff and volunteer support, along with a regular law enforcement presence. Heyland had emphasized that homelessness in the area extends beyond substance abuse, often tied to financial hardship or domestic situations.
The Pen City Current reports that the board behind the project has decided to discontinue efforts, citing the loss of momentum after Heyland’s passing. A spokesman for the group says they have been unable to find someone to take on a similar leadership role, despite acknowledging the continued need for such a facility.
