(FORT WAYNE) -- Clothes for Joes has launched a 250-thousand-dollar capital campaign to open a new Veterans Service Center in Fort Wayne.
Organizers say the goal is to have the center up and running by Veterans Day.
The planned facility will offer free clothing, showers, laundry, mailboxes, and access to mental health and addiction services--all under one roof.
Leaders say the project is focused on giving homeless veterans what they call a "hand up," making it easier to access basic needs and services in one location instead of traveling across the city.
The future center will be housed in a building on Washington Boulevard that was donated by local businessman Mike Ackels.
The campaign kickoff also included a 15-thousand-dollar donation from the Combat Veterans' Motorcycle Association.
Another major boost is expected this fall, when a donated 1949 Ford Custom Convertible is auctioned at Kruse, with proceeds going to the campaign.
Organizers say the center is designed to help veterans stabilize, prepare for job interviews, and connect with longer-term housing and support resources.