Interactive Resource Center to enter first phase of expansion to 24/7 facility in Greensboro

Greensboro's Interactive Resource Center (IRC) is beginning the first phase of its transition to provide homelessness services 24/7 on Wednesday.

The IRC will now open Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The Guilford County Board of Commissioners approved $306,000 in December to help with the expansion.

IRC Executive Director Kristina Singleton said at the meeting there's a critical need for safe and sanitary spaces for people without housing. She said a drop-in center model instead of a shelter ensures no one is turned away.

"We don't want to make a situation where there are more people on a waiting list to come into the IRC," Singleton said. "We have enough waiting lists and we need something for the folks that aren't in that situation."

The IRC Drop-in Center will increase hours of access to restrooms, showers, storage lockers and laundry services.

Evening case management will also be provided to participants at the center.

According to the county, there are more than 600 people on waiting lists for homelessness services.