El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is taking its charitable work to the next level thanks to joining a new Bank of America program.
The ECHO shelter was selected as the inaugural recipient of the bank's Neighborhood Champion award.
The organization is receiving $50,000 to support its work in the community.
The gift comes as the northern San Luis Obispo County shelter plans to expand it services by opening another facility.
"So the financial piece is huge but also the support they will offer us as we grow to make sure we have the tools we need to serve the people who really need our help and people facing hunger and homelessness," said Wendy Lewis, ECHO CEO.
ECHO, located in Atascadero, is one of just two permanent homeless shelters in San Luis Obispo County.
It plans to use the funds to add staff as it shifts to a 24-hour facility, as well as adding extra beds and community outreach services.
