God's Shelter of Love said its shelters are at the highest occupancy ever recorded in the history of the organization.

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - God's Shelter of Love in Decatur said it is beyond capacity and unable to accept anyone else. 

God's Shelter of Love said its shelters are at the highest occupancy ever recorded in the history of the organization.

The Emergency Overnight Shelter has exceeded its intended capacity. 

"Our family room is full, every single bed is occupied, all three cots are in use, and we have even had to place a pallet on the floor to ensure that every woman and child seeking safety have a place to rest," the group said.

The Transitional Shelter is currently at full capacity, serving 6 women and 4 children as they work toward long-term stability and independence. "Across both programs, we are experiencing unprecedented demand for safe shelter and supportive services," God's Shelter of Love said. 

"We respectfully ask that community agencies and partners do not refer anyone directly to God's Shelter of Love without first calling and speaking with a member of our team. This will allow us to assess current availability and help identify the most appropriate resources for those in need," they added. 

In May 2026 alone, God's Shelter of Love provided 412 safe bed nights compared to 273 during May 2025, an increase of 50.92%. 

"As we navigate this exceptionally full season, we are asking our community to come alongside us in prayer and support," the group said. 

Most immediate needs include:

• Toilet paper

• Paper plates

• Paper towels

• Disposable utensils

• Laundry detergent pods

• Grab-and-go breakfast items such as fresh fruit, granola bars, breakfast bars, and other individually packaged breakfast foods

The greatest need at this time is financial support to sustain shelter operations. 

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