The Turlock Gospel Mission is breaking ground on phase one of the new year-round shelter Wednesday.

The first phase of the project will encompass dormitories for homeless men, women, and children, restrooms with showers, and laundry facilities at the 437 S. Broadway site.

The goal is to have the project completed by Oct. 1, which would be in time for the colder weather and about a month before the lease is set to expire at the Homeless Assistance Ministry center on East Avenue.

“We are just at the beginning stage, but it is very exciting,” said Tim Guerino, Turlock Gospel Mission’s executive director.

The project is expected to cost about $500,000. The Turlock Gospel Mission is about $75,000 short of that goal, but Guerino has faith they’ll hit that mark.

“It’s coming in everyday,” Guerino said. “We have trust in the Lord that we’ll get there.”

The entire project, which will include a kitchen, dining hall, and office space, is estimated to cost $1.8 million Guerino said. It will eventually have a capacity of about 168 individuals.

A good portion of the funds needed for the year-round shelter have come from corporate donations, such as $225,000 from Hilmar Cheese Company.

Additionally, a challenge issued by Turlock City Council member Forrest White to Turlock residents to match his $500 donation has brought in more than 90 pledges, Guerino said.

“It has been a truly community-wide effort,” Guerino said. “This is a house that the Lord is building and He is building it through his people.”

The public is invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday at 437 S. Broadway.