Street Level was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown. While much of the community was homebound, individuals experiencing homelessness became even more visible—often because they had nowhere else to go when access to indoor spaces was limited.
What started as a simple act of compassion quickly grew into something much bigger.
In the beginning, Street Level operated out of the back of our founder’s car, providing hot meals and essential items to those living on the streets. For nearly two years, support was offered however possible—showing up with what was available and doing what could be done to meet immediate needs.
Along the way, one important truth became clear: trust was hard to find.
As our founder shared:
“I quickly realized that trust was something they struggled with… I know far too well what that’s like. The only thing I knew to do to possibly gain some of their trust was to be consistent in showing up for them and to keep my word.”
That consistency has remained at the heart of Street Level. For the past six years, we have continued showing up—serving meals, offering basic necessities, and building relationships rooted in dignity and compassion. Today, Street Level has grown into an established nonprofit organization with a board of directors, a space of our own, and a deep connection to the community.
We now know and serve over 200 unhoused individuals living on the streets of Cape Girardeau.
Street Level exists to meet people where they are, offer hope, and remind every person we serve that they are seen, valued, and not alone.