The Day By Day Shelter, located in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is a vital resource in the community, providing year-round support to adults experiencing homelessness. Unique in its operation, Day By Day is the only low-barrier shelter in the area, meaning it is open to all adults, regardless of their circumstances.
With the shelter's recent move to a new, purpose-built facility, the organization sought to partner with a local company that gives back to the community and could provide end-to-end assistance in furnishing the new 14,000-square-foot space. The goal was to create a functional, welcoming environment for both guests and staff, ensuring the space was sustainable and met the facility's long-term needs.
Before moving into the new facility, Day By Day operated in a building that was not designed specifically for shelter use. The current Day By Day Shelter is the first ever purpose-built shelter in the state of Wisconsin! The 14,000-square-foot space was to be made into a safe and welcoming environment for those in need within the community.
Furnish an entire shelter from the ground up, focusing on thoughtful, budget-conscious choices that prioritize durability, comfort, sustainability, and the well-being of both the residents and staff.
Ensuring the purchased products were durable and capable of supporting the residents and facility for years to come.
Rhyme, based in Oshkosh, was an ideal choice due to its proximity and reputation for quality service. The partnership with Rhyme went beyond just supplying furniture; it was a collaborative effort to furnish an entire shelter with new, purpose-built items designed for both comfort and durability. Wrapping up the project with a wide range of essential furnishings.
The implementation of the new shelter facility was a highly collaborative effort between Day By Day Shelter and Rhyme. Starting fresh with a purpose-built space, great care was taken to select furnishings that aligned with the shelter’s operational needs and mission.
Together, we focused on providing functional, durable pieces designed to withstand the shelter’s environment for years to come. The final selections included office furniture, dining tables, lounge area tables, beds, and shelving units, all thoughtfully chosen to balance practicality and comfort.
The successful partnership between Day By Day and Rhyme not only helped the shelter furnish its new facility but also fostered a sense of community involvement and support. The shelter now operates in a state-of-the-art facility with furniture and fixtures that are both functional and comfortable for its residents and staff. The new furniture has helped create a welcoming environment that enhances the shelter's ability to serve the community.
On the morning of Day By Day's open house, two Rhyme employees arrived with a $10,000 donation to support the shelter’s mission. This meaningful contribution reflected Rhyme’s dedication to the community and made a positive, lasting impression on the organization.
"The entire project was community supported and community driven... We’re very lucky to have Rhyme as our furniture vendor because full circle, they gave back to the community."
- Molly Yatso Butz, Executive Director