MANITOWOC, WI, May 5, 2026 – The Neighborhood of Manitowoc County is a transformative collaborative initiative between The Warming Shelter, Hope House, The Haven, and other key community partners. This project aims to create an affordable and transitional housing program, providing a vital lifeline for individuals and families navigating challenging circumstances. Our purpose is a continuum of living for individuals experiencing homelessness in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin with a goal to end homelessness by helping individuals transition to self-sufficiency and independent living. This project reflects Manitowoc’s need for affordable housing and the collaborative effort required to bring it to life. While much work has been happening quietly behind the scenes and will take time, rehabilitating the historic McKinley building into 36 affordable apartments to serve and strengthen our community will be incredibly impactful.
 
The public is invited to participate in the renovation kickoff celebration planned for Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 4:00 pm at the McKinley Building located at 1010 Huron Street, Manitowoc. Participants will have the historic opportunity to knock the bricks out of a blocked-up window to officially kick-off the project and commence the transformation, in addition to viewing renderings of the project and meeting Board Members. Enter through the gym on 10th street
 
Framing the Future: A New Vision for McKinley is phase one of the rehabilitation project and will cost $1.5 million. Thanks to the generosity of the West Foundation, and Jim and Barbee Lester, $1 million has already been raised. The full vision for this project is expected to require $12 million.
 
“This is not just a renovation,” stated Pastor Matt Sauer, Founder and Executive Director of the Manitowoc Warming Shelter. “It is a resurrection of purpose, a reclaiming of space, and a commitment to ensuring that this historic place once again serves the people of Manitowoc, especially those who need it most.”
 
“This project represents more than restoring an historic building; it represents restoring opportunity,” reflected Alex Hunt, Executive Director of The Haven and Board Member. “Turning McKinley into affordable housing shows what is possible when a community values both its past and the people who need a stable place to call home.”
 
“This building, McKinley School, represents decades of service in the ministry of education to the Manitowoc community,” remarked Sister Leonette, Sister of Franciscan Charity and Board Member. “It will continue to provide a very vital ministry, offering what is the birthright of each individual person, that is, to live with dignity, supported by a caring community.”
 
“This is such a rewarding project…We preserve a historical building, beautify the neighborhood and enhance the lives of individuals in our community,” shared Thomas Veeser, Chief Nursing Officer, Froedtert Holy Family Memorial.
 
ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD MANITOWOC COUNTY: The Neighborhood of Manitowoc County, Inc. is an approved 501(c)3 and registered with the state of Wisconsin as a non-profit corporation.
 
CONTACT: Pastor Matt Sauer | (920) 682-4688 or theNeighborhoodofManitowoc@gmail.com
 

McKinley Building
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