Street Level: A Lifeline for the Homeless in Cape Girardeau
In 2020, as the world slowed to a halt during the pandemic, Allie Miles noticed something she couldn’t ignore: the rising visibility of Cape Girardeau's homeless population. With lockdowns forcing most people indoors, those without shelter had nowhere to go. Moved to action, Allie began distributing food and essential items—socks, gloves, and hand warmers—from the back of her car. For two years, her efforts were simple but consistent, laying the foundation for what would later become Street Level, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding the unsheltered.
Over the past four years, Allie’s commitment has transformed a one-person mission into a community-supported organization with a physical space and a volunteer board of five members. Street Level now supports over 150 homeless individuals, providing hot meals, toiletries, clothing, and other essentials. “Trust was something they struggled with,” Allie shares. “I knew the only way to gain it was to show up consistently and keep my word.” This consistency has not only built trust but also hope for those they serve.
Street Level operates with a heartfelt mission: to aid, assist, and advocate for those surviving homelessness. Volunteers conduct street rounds every Tuesday, delivering hot meals and snack bags. Office hours on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays provide additional opportunities for people to receive a hot meal, snacks, toiletries, and clothing. These meals, often the only hot ones many receive in a week, are prepared by community members through a meal train program.
During winter, when temperatures drop below 27 degrees or severe weather strikes, Street Level covers hotel stays, housing 40 individuals last season thanks to $50,000 in community donations.
Operating in a new space since April 2023, Street Level now faces additional expenses for its lease and utilities. Community support remains vital, whether through monetary donations or by donating items from the Walmart or Amazon wish lists. Allie and her team are passionate about meeting people “right where they are,” offering not just resources but also a safe space, compassion, and unwavering support. To join their mission, click the links below or contact them at 573-987-4562. Together, we can make a difference in our community.