Wheeler's History

The Mission is founded under the name Door of Hope. It's led by a hardware salesman, William V. Wheeler, who volunteers his time.

1893
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  William Wheeler dies, and organization is renamed in his honor.

1908
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  Present building built at 245 North Delaware Street.

1929
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  Wheeler's own camp (later named Camp Hunt) opens.

1959
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Wheeler's second building, rented from 1895-1905   A letter to the editor after his death read that   Construction of   The Morton Memorial Chapel at Camp Hunt.
Wheeler establishes a Day Room: the first place in the city where the homeless were welcome during the day.

1988
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  Wheeler transforms the Dearborn Hotel on Michigan Street into a Youth and Family Center, named that John D. Hughes Community Center.

1991-1994
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  Wheeler's landmark shelter for men re-opens after a complete renovation and an expansion.

1998
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  Wheeler Mission Ministries and The Care Center merge.

2001
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Before then, every shelter in the city turned out the homeless during the day.   The Dearborn Hotel was once a recreational center for the KKK   The new addition was designed so that it's roof could be easily removed and more floors could be added.   Before the merger, Wheeler hadn't sheltered women for more than 80 years.
Wheeler purchases adjacent building. The new annex will provide additional space for men on Wheeler's program.

2002
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  In January, Wheeler provides more lodgings than ever before, breaking records set in the Great Depression.

2003
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  In September, Wheeler merges with Lighthouse Mission to enhance the programs offered for homeless men.

2006
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  In January, the Care Center moves to a new building and is renamed to the Center for Women and Children.

2009
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the building adds 50% more ministry space   When we run out of bed space, men sleep on the floor    

 

Wheeler Mission Thrift Store
May 2012
Volunteer
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