New Community Shelter in Green Bay victim of scam

GREEN BAY, WI—(WGBW)— A nonprofit shelter that provides emergency housing, transitional housing, and community meals to the area’s unhoused population is the victim of a $90,000 scam. The New Community Shelter in Green Bay recently fell victim to a fraudulent donation.

Shelter officials say what they thought was a generous donation to the shelter turned out to be a scam. “A harsh reminder of the challenges nonprofits face in today’s digital environment,” a press release from the organization said. 

Losing out on a $90,000 donation would hurt anytime. But the timing of this incident is especially difficult for the New Community Shelter. It is in the middle of a major capital campaign to build a supportive housing complex for individuals who’ve completed the shelter’s programs, but need additional time and stability.

Additionally, the shelter is trying to raise money to keep its three primary programs running: the emergency shelter, transitional living, and the community meal program.

“This was incredibly disappointing, and sad to know that even a local homeless shelter is not immune to a scam,” Terri Refsguard, CEO of the New Community Shelter, said in a press release. “We rely on the generosity of donors to make our work possible. For someone to misuse that trust is frustrating, but it won’t deter us from moving forward with our mission.”

For over 30 years, the New Community Shelter has helped adults experiencing homelessness find a path forward through structure, accountability, and individualized support. It is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Over 88% of the shelter’s funding comes from individuals, businesses, and community organizations. 

Shelter authorities are cooperating with authorities and taking additional steps to protect against future incidents.