Christie Adamson founded the Third Place along with Cloey Miler, just 6 months ago because they found a gap in services for the homeless. They are the only two employees and directors. Their mission is to build a welcoming community where people can find support and a renewed sense of hope through meaningful relationships and connections.
They are a drop-in center from 8 am until 2 pm Monday through Friday. Case management is done between 2 pm and 4 pm. They are informal and provide space filled with dignity and social inclusion. Someone can just grab a cup of coffee and take a nap on the couch. Visitors will soon find so much more. Mailing services, secured storage, internet access, clothing and hygiene items, a phone, harm reduction, and a restroom. As connections are built, they assist with resource navigation and referrals for what they need.
Christie described our growing homelessness like a faucet of water not draining correctly into a tub. More are entering than leaving this crisis in their lives. We have seen a 44% increase, locally, from 2023 to 2024. They thought they would see about 40 people a week but are now serving 100-120 per DAY!.
The name does not come from their address, 2000 Third Avenue, Rock Island. It comes from the known pieces that someone needs in society. They need, first, a home; second, a place to be productive, like school, work, or volunteerism; and third, someplace to be in community with others, such as church.
They have developed collaboration with various agencies that come to The Third Place to meet with participants. They don't make the individuals battle the need for transportation. This includes Christian Care, Community Health, Unity Point, Family Resources, Nest Cafe, RICCA, Robert Young, and Project Now, and others as needs pop up.
How can you help? They offer a list of needed items on their Facebook page. Less common items include book bags, grocery bags, and luggage. You can help by sharing their mission with others. They have already outgrown their space so they are looking for someplace larger in Rock Island. They want to expand to other cities in the long term. They even mentioned franchising.
