MICHIGAN CITY — In the heart of Michigan City, Sand Castle Shelter for Homeless Families stands as a beacon of hope for those facing housing insecurity.
Operated by Citizens Concerned for the Homeless, Inc. (CCH), the shelter provides a structured 30 to 60 day residential program tailored for single mothers with children and families led by couples or fathers.
Recently receiving a $630,000 total renovation, each family receives a private room and is supported by a dedicated case manager who meets with them daily to set goals, track progress and offer guidance.
The shelter’s approach is holistic. Through action plans developed during an intake interview, residents are expected to seek employment, apply for assistance, search for permanent housing and eliminate specific barriers which brought them to the shelter.
In addition, they also participate in daily chores and observe a 9 p.m. curfew, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
According to CCH Operations Director and Sand Castle case manager, Tammy Rosebaum, all participants, adults and children alike, benefit from the small, cozy atmosphere that resembles a home rather than an institutional setting. It gives them a more personal experience where sometimes lifelong friendships are made with others who understand exactly what they are going through.
CCH Executive Director Jim Musial indicates Sand Castle Shelter is just one part of a broader ecosystem of support. CCH also operates Grace Learning Center and Keys to Hope Community Resource Center, both located nearby. These facilities offer skill-building classes and essential services that help residents transition from crisis to stability.
At Grace Learning Center, participants attend courses in job readiness, nutrition, banking, budgeting and credit repair with seven classes dedicated to address mental health and substance use disorders. These classes are a cornerstone of the shelter’s philosophy that empowerment through education leads to long-term success, added Musial.
CCH’s programs are built on mutual respect and compassion, but with structure and accountability. Residents must test free of drugs and alcohol before entering the shelter, and 75 percent of any income earned during their stay is saved toward future housing. Children continue attending their original schools, minimizing disruption during a difficult time.
Importantly, CCH respects the privacy of its residents. No personal information is shared without explicit authorization, ensuring dignity and safety for families in transition.
CCH works closely with other local agencies to ensure that every individual receives the most appropriate care.
Dunebrook brings Sand Castle Shelter its weekly Nurturing Parenting program, which focuses on strengthening family relationships by helping parents build resilience, understand childhood and parental trauma and replace harmful generational patterns with healthy, supportive parenting skills.
This collaborative model ensures that resources are used efficiently and that every person receives support tailored to their unique needs.
Under the leadership of Musial and Rosebaum, CCH continues to expand its impact. Nicole Mitchell coordinates the Keys to Hope program, ensuring seamless integration across services.
Citizens Concerned for the Homeless invites the community to get involved, whether through donations, volunteering or simply spreading the word. Their work is not just about shelter; it’s about restoring hope, rebuilding lives and strengthening the fabric of La Porte County.
