The Grace Space Opens Permanent Doors in Cortland

Residents in search of a safe environment and essential support services have a new place to call home during the day. Following months of extensive renovations, The Grace Space is now officially open at 64 Pendleton Street.

The project was spearheaded by Matthew Whitman, Executive Director of the Rural Health Institute, who coordinated a coalition of non-profits, local businesses, and faith-based organizations to bring the center to life.

“A lot of local businesses have donated materials and labor. Local churches have given donations, individual organizations, just—it’s really been a huge community effort. You know, over the next couple weeks, we’re going to be recognizing just all the donors and all the community agencies and partners that—that made this space possible.” Whitman told X101 News.

The facility is designed to meet immediate physical needs while connecting individuals to long-term support. Current amenities include:

• Showers and laundry facilities
• Phone charging stations
• Daytime storage for personal belongings
• Complimentary coffee, water, and essential supplies

The Grace Space is currently open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Beginning in May, the hours will shift to 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The facility is staffed by three full-time employees, with plans to integrate community volunteers in the future.

Whitman noted that in the coming weeks, the center will introduce a dedicated area for community-based agencies to provide on-site professional services.

The permanent Pendleton Street location follows a successful pilot program launched in early 2025 at the Grace & Holy Spirit Church on Court Street. While that temporary site closed in November 2025, the data gathered there proved the necessity of a dedicated space.

To encourage a positive environment, the Rural Health Institute has implemented a unique incentive program. Participants can earn points for following house rules and displaying “good neighbor” behavior. These points can be redeemed for snacks, socks, and personal hygiene items.

While The Grace Space handles daytime needs, the Code Blue Warming Center will continue its overnight operations at the Salvation Army on South Main Street. Code Blue protocols—which provide shelter when temperatures or wind chills drop below 32 degrees—remain in effect from 4:30 pm to 8:30 am.