To the person in Rio Grande who needs advice about how to open a homeless shelter, my first thought was for you to contact a social worker. They have all kinds of resources and information on such things. I then found wikihow.com. Type in: "How do I start a non-profit homeless shelter." I understand it's maybe not "you" personally, but certainly advice on getting some local organizations behind the idea and getting other people involved. Then there's always the "not in my backyard" opposition. Be prepared.