Meet the Director of Open Arms

Mark Sanderson

Director of Open Arms

The Board of Directors for Open Arms Shelter is excited to announce that Mark Sanderson will be the Director effective August 2, 2021.  After 38 years in law enforcement, Mark retired from Collin County Sheriff Department as Chief Deputy.  He & his wife, Joyce, moved back to Fannin County in 2019.   Mark is excited to be giving back to the community through his position as Shelter Director. 

Mark says that Fannin County has a unique ability to do something about the homeless situation before it gets out of control like in the large cities.  If we work together as a community, we can make a difference.  We can provide temporary housing and food and we can give the homeless hope and a way to get back on their feet.

One Year Anniversary for Open Arms Homeless Shelter

Open Arms Homeless Shelter of Fannin County is officially one year old. The shelter opened on June 8, 2020. Over one-hundred homeless individuals have benefited from the shelter this past year. Residents at the shelter have a bed, showers, and laundry facilities on-site. Residents are provided with a continental style breakfast, a sack lunch, and a hot evening meal daily. Additionally, residents make a plan with a case manager to help them move toward an independent life style. Pastoral counseling is also available to residents.

Open Arms Shelter has received generous support from the residents of Fannin County. Volunteers work at the shelter seven days a week. Many churches and individuals make monthly contributions to the shelter. Businesses in Fannin County have also given a helping hand through corporate donations of money and goods. Many restaurants help monthly with the hot evening meals. Open Arms Shelter has been blessed by God during this first year of operation.

Celebrate one year of operation on Sunday, June 13, from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at 1205 Albert Broadfoot in Bonham, Texas. Light refreshments and a tour of the building will be provided during this come and go Open House.