What We Do

The Beacon Homeless Day Resource Center operates under the management of Catholic Charities Diocese of Madison, with enthusiastic support from Urban Triage for their Housing Navigation Services. The Beacon offers vital solutions for men, women, and children affected by homelessness in Dane County, Wisconsin. It operates as a dependable shelter, open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, providing essential services such as:

• Light breakfast, coffee, daily lunch
• Private showers & restrooms
• Laundry (drop off – same day service)
• Mail Center, phones, copier & fax
• Day storage
• Preventative healthcare
• Private family areas
• Referrals for mental health counseling
• Referrals to case managers
• Transportation between night shelters

Additionally, they provide housing and employment support services including:

• Mail Center: Receive mail and packages free of charge.
• Access to Phones: Make calls, with staff taking messages when you're away.
• Identification Assistance: Apply for or replace identification cards.
• Computer Lab and Classes: Internet access, and assistance with resumes.

In addition to the services offered above, partner agencies present additional supportive services throughout the week, such as FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) and housing support initiatives, ensuring comprehensive assistance aligned with Housing and Urban Development (HUD) definitions of homelessness which includes those living in a shelter, on the streets, in a vehicle, or a place not meant for human habitation.

Urban Triage’s Housing Navigation Specialists are available on-site from Monday to Wednesday between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, offering aid in areas such as:

• Identifying housing barriers and strategizing plans to overcome those barriers.
• Assisting with housing searches and the application process within the private market.
• Guiding individuals and families through subsidized housing applications.
• Facilitating connections to transitional housing programs where necessary.
• Providing Quick Move-In Funds for security deposits and application fees, as applicable.

Our Staff

Removing Barriers Through Partnerships

Urban Triage is deeply rooted in the power of collaboration and partnerships. Our commitment to providing essential housing services stems from a strong network of alliances with key organizations. We are excited to embark on the housing navigation services in partnership with Dane County, City of Madison, and United Way of Dane County. The operation of The Beacon showcases our investment in partnership-driven solutions, involving 27 agencies working collectively. This approach not only puts those who are disenfranchised and vulnerable at the heart of our mission but also emphasizes our dedication to bridging service gaps within the community.

Join Us in Ending Homelessness

Urban Triage provides a lifeline for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Our mission is driven by the understanding that everyone deserves a stable place to call home. We extend our support to those who meet the definition of homelessness as established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Our comprehensive suite of services includes:

• Chronic Documentation: Assisting individuals in securing the necessary paperwork and records required for housing applications and government programs.
• Outreach Programs: Reaching out to those in need where they are, offering support and connection to essential services.
• Housing Navigation Services: Guiding our clients through the complexities of finding and securing sustainable housing.
• Rapid Rehousing: Providing immediate assistance to help homeless individuals and families quickly transition into their own homes.
• Transitional Housing: Offering a temporary residence for those in the process of securing permanent housing.

As well as many other essential services aimed at providing stability and hope for the future. If you would like to see the full range of services offered through Urban Triage for housing resources, please click the button below.