HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WOWK) — A former public works building in Cabell County has a newfound purpose to fit the needs of the needy.
The Huntington Homeless Services Hub, or “The Hub,” makes its debut on Saturday, Nov. 1, as an emergency overnight shelter, but when it’s complete, the facility will act as a low-barrier entry point for people to get the help they need.
Phase 1 of the project is starting with the basics; a bed and a warm place to sleep. Two simple things that Huntington resident Estell Mays said means everything.
“Its going to keep people in the right direction, you know, getting back on their feet quicker so they can get back to working a job,” Mays said. “If they ain’t never had a job, maybe this could be a good opportunity for them to get out and find a job.”
The building is still owned by the City of Huntington, who is collaborating with Valley Health and other resource providers to eventually build a system of medical services inside. Plans for 2026 also include connections to recovery resources and housing.
“They got a better place to sleep and little safer,” Mays said.
Huntington Mayor Patrick Farrell said the facility has a very specific mission, and that’s by design.
“It’s not a drug deal,” Farrell said. “It’s not a long-term shelter. It’s not a permanent encampment site. What it is, is a place that people can come that need help, and then when they get here, we’ll understand what their needs are and get them to the right kind of help.”
Right now, The Hub can provide food, shelter and running water for 80 people at a time.
Phase 2 of the project will integrate medical professionals from Valley Health, like Travis Hall, who serves as the building’s manager.
City leader Jan Rader has assisted her community in many roles and said Westside resources like The Hub have the ability to change lives.
“I feel like when somebody is down and out and they’re trying to rebuild their lives, it’s like they have a piggy bank,” Rader said, “and once you get enough positive touch points in that piggy bank, they have the strength to move forward with their lives.”
Tuesday evening’s open house and dinner gave the community a glimpse into what’s possible, Hall said, but nothing in this line of work can replace a caring spirit.
