In a bid to address veteran homelessness, St. Lucie County is moving forward with a plan to repurpose the old Relax Inn into a co-ed shelter for homeless veterans. The property, purchased for $1.15 million, lies on US 1 South near Fort Pierce's northern boundary, as reported by WPTV. County spokesperson Erick Gill voiced the urgency of combating homelessness which has burgeoned in the region, punctuating the county's dedication to providing much-needed assistance to this vulnerable segment of the populace.

Renovation estimates for the former motel, built in 1954, range from $515,000 to $687,000, these funds aimed at transforming the interior into 13 single-occupancy rooms and communal spaces designed for dining, and meetings and group sessions to foster a supportive community environment, as per details from TCPalm. With water and well installations in progress, the county awaits architectural design work to embark on the projections; renovations are expected to endure about 18 months, stated by Erick Gill.

On the lookout for a non-profit to oversee the shelter's operations, St. Lucie County emphasizes the importance of offering comprehensive support services, including job training, mental health support, and aid in securing permanent housing. Erick Gill, in an interview with WPTV, conveyed the county's objective of delivering more than just a roof over the heads of homeless veterans.

Prospective operators have until January 8th to submit their proposals for the shelter's management, post which a selection committee is slated to identify the most suitable candidate that aligns with the county's vision and can cater to the holistic needs of the veterans, as TCPalm reported. While no official opening date is currently set, the initiative marks a tangible step toward addressing veteran homelessness within the community.