Muskogee organizations team up to connect homeless to resources

New coordinated plan aims to provide housing, mental health, and addiction support by 2027

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:51am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Organizations in Muskogee, Oklahoma have developed a new collaborative plan to better connect people experiencing homelessness with the resources and support they need, including housing assistance, mental health care, and addiction recovery programs. The plan focuses on improving coordination between various service providers across the city to create a more comprehensive system of care.

Why it matters

Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. By working together, local organizations in Muskogee hope to provide a more seamless and effective way for those in need to access the full range of services and support to help them get back on their feet.

The details

The plan was developed with input from the community and involves partners like the Gospel Rescue Mission, the Muskogee Health Department, and addiction recovery services. It aims to create better referral systems so that organizations can connect individuals to the specific resources they require, whether that's housing, mental health care, or addiction treatment. While still in the early stages, the goal is to have the full plan implemented by 2027.

  • The new coordinated plan is currently in development and is not expected to be fully completed until 2027.

The players

Wesley Kilpatrick

A former homeless individual who stayed at the Gospel Rescue Mission and is now advocating for the new coordinated plan to help others in similar situations.

Rich Schaus

A representative from the Gospel Rescue Mission who emphasized that no single organization can solve the issue of homelessness alone, and that collaboration is key.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There is no program individually that can pull this off, but if we work together, we're going to have some accomplishment done.”

— Rich Schaus, Representative, Gospel Rescue Mission

“Whether I'm taking advantage of it for myself or helping somebody else do it, we're all going to benefit from it.”

— Wesley Kilpatrick

What’s next

Organizers encouraged community members to share their ideas and suggestions by visiting the organization's website and sending an email with feedback.

The takeaway

This collaborative effort in Muskogee demonstrates the power of organizations working together to tackle the complex issue of homelessness. By coordinating services and resources, they hope to create a more comprehensive and effective system to support those in need and help them transition into stable housing and independent living.