Churches United to buy Coca-Cola warehouse in Moorhead
The organization plans to convert the 60,000 square-foot building into a family shelter and expanded food pantry by the end of June 2027.
By Stephen Collins ·
Churches United has agreed to buy a former Coca-Cola sales center in north Moorhead.
The organization plans to use the building to expand its shelter and food pantry services. CEO Devlyn Brooks announced the purchase agreement at a fundraising event on Oct. 29.
The property sits on four acres and contains a 60,000 square-foot warehouse. Brooks said the group may add a second floor to increase the usable area. He projected the site could eventually support more than 100,000 square feet of services.
The new facility is located across the street from Micah's Mission, the group's current shelter and community center. That location currently houses about 105 single men, women, and family members each night.
The Dorothy Day Food Pantry will move from 1308 Main Ave. to the new warehouse. Brooks said the new site offers more indoor waiting space, a larger parking lot, and loading docks for semi trucks.
The additional storage capacity allows the group to buy food in larger quantities. Brooks described the potential to warehouse food on a grander scale as a major opportunity.
Open Doors 65 will also relocate to the new building. This organization provides free clothing and household essentials to residents in need.
The remaining space in the warehouse will serve as a family emergency shelter and intake center. Micah's Mission currently has 15 family dorm rooms. Brooks said the group has a daily wait list of 12 to 15 families.
Families typically stay for several months while they secure stable housing. The new building aims to double that capacity and provide dedicated family spaces. Brooks said the design will avoid the look of college dorm rooms.
Moving the family shelter to the new site would free up 40 beds at Micah's Mission for single individuals. The new facility will also host healthcare, dental, and mental health services.
Brooks said the group hopes to partner with local businesses to offer haircuts and run a mini library. An outdoor courtyard is planned to provide a safe gathering space for people seeking services.
The purchase price will be less than $3 million. Brooks noted this is far cheaper than constructing a new facility of that size. He did not provide a cost estimate for renovations, citing the need for more concrete plans.
Source: The Forum of Fargo–Moorhead
