Second Light Shelter + Services announced today that a new shelter
provider will be joining the community effort to reach functional zero homelessness. Mental Health America of South Central Kansas, a trusted provider serving the community for nearly 70 years and a partner in Second Light planning since its inception, was named as the shelter provider beginning May 15, 2026. HumanKind Ministries will remain an important partner with Second Light, shifting their focus to affordable housing solutions for guests who are ready to transition out of the shelter.
“We are excited to welcome MHASCK on as the shelter provider in this innovative model,” said Steve Dixon, Second Light Board Chair. “Mental health plays a huge role in homelessness, and we are grateful to have the expertise, compassion and solutions that they offer in this space.”
“At MHASCK, we believe that stable housing and mental health support must go hand in hand,” said Mary Jones, President and CEO of Mental Health America of South Central Kansas. “This partnership reflects work that has been part of our community for decades and allows us to meet
individuals where they are while supporting both immediate needs and long-term stability.”
MHASCK will begin leading shelter operations at Second Light as of May 15, building on services already provided on-site, and will work alongside HumanKind Ministries to fully transition operations over the next few weeks.
“We would like to thank HumanKind for their dedication to this work and our community. For years, they have taken on the role of providing emergency winter shelter helping thousands of our unhoused neighbors. We support their decision to focus efforts on this important collective work of affordable housing in our community,” said Dixon.
With the shelter now in place, HumanKind is able to focus more fully on expanding affordable housing options.”
Ryan Bond, Board Chair HumanKind Ministries
Ryan Bond, Board Chair HumanKind Ministries said, “With the shelter now in place, HumanKind is able to focus more fully on expanding affordable housing options, helping ensure that guests have a stable place to go when they’re ready to transition out. We’re grateful for Second Light leadership
and the HumanKind shelter team, whose care and commitment made this 24/7/365 service possible, and we look forward to continuing this work alongside Second Light and our community partners to support long-term stability in Wichita.”
For more information on Second Light, go to www.secondlightwichita.org
Second Light is a community-driven initiative designed to provide comprehensive services and support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Second Light speaks to renewal, hope, and the moment when darkness gives way to possibility. It represents a fresh start for those seeking stability, a guiding path toward healing and housing, and the reassurance that every life has another chance to shine.