North of Delmar is a community collaboration initiative aiming to foster holistic development and sustainable growth in the St. Louis area. The project brings together non-profit organizations with support from major corporations, philanthropists, and universities in the region. The goal is to raise funding to bolster the ongoing initiatives of the non-profits and conduct research to validate their impact. The collaboration will officially commence in 2025. Additional entities interested in contributing or participating are encouraged to join the initiative.

North of Delmar strives to create a thriving and inclusive community by fostering collaboration among non-profit organizations, corporations, philanthropists, and universities. Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, we aim to improve quality of life, promote economic opportunity, and drive sustainable development in the St. Louis area.

A couple of important things are happening soon. We're working on scheduling a meeting with the leaders of all six functional groups who provide services to our communities. But first, we'll hold a Zoom meeting on housing re-delevelopment in Wells Goodfellow.

And we're starting on our practicum with Washington University's Center for Experiential Learning in January to study our first community project. We will be measuring the effectiveness of the programs implemented. Should be very exciting! Collaboration by all involved is the key.

Our database of people and organizations interested in North of Delmar is growing. Maybe joining us for a cup of coffee might make sense for you?

We would love to learn more about what you are trying to accomplish. And perhaps there is the possibility of collaboration with others that we can help foster?

Other good things happening North of Delmar include:

For over 22 years, Bridge of Hope has quietly served the Ville community in North St. Louis as the city's longest-continuously operating day shelter. During the pandemic, they asked their chronically unhoused clients what they most needed to stabilize their lives. Overwhelmingly, they said: access to a bed (at Bridge of Hope), doctors, medications, substance use disorder support, and help securing permanent housing.

Inspired by their needs, they sought out a model program and found the 200-bed gold-standard medical respite center, Circle the City, in Phoenix. They've mentored Bridge of Hope for two years as they prepare to bring a similar program to St. Louis.

With Medicaid expected to cover approximately 80% of operational costs, they are making great progress. The Centene Foundation, HomeState Health, and Healthy Blue are championing their efforts with substantial funding. Centene is so committed to medical respite care that they will be encouraging other funders to join them in opening this much-needed facility.

Bridge of Hope owns an 11,000 sq. ft., ADA-accessible building, which they are refurbishing to house 35 medical respite beds. With an average 30-day stay, they will serve around 400 individuals per year. They've secured written support from over 70 neighbors, meeting zoning requirements, and building community trust. While rare for 24/7 homelessness services, their community we/comes this program. Additionally, they have letters of support from 30 businesses and organizations.

Come join us and let's all work together!

Eric M.

Eliot S.

Stuart Z.