OAK GROVE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A plan to turn a 20,000 square foot church at 205 Stateline Road into a homeless shelter was first presented to the City of Oak Grove in June. The man behind the vision for the Pursuing Life Center has since pulled out, shifting the search for an ideal property to outside of the city.
“It became clear that the proposed shelter was not something many Oak Grove residents were comfortable with, and I want to be respectful of that,” John Carter told Christian County Now. “My goal was to present the vision, answer questions, and ensure that both the community and I had the opportunity to be heard. I believe that happened.”
Carter initially shared plans to the Oak Grove City Council on June 3, 2025, and explained that the goal was to provide emergency and week-long sheltering as well as more permanent transitional housing and support for people experiencing homelessness. He presented the plan to the council before following through with the purchase of the building.
Councilmembers were immediately vocal about their concerns, mostly regarding the safety and the potential negative impact of residents living nearby. Later that month, Carter further engaged with local residents by hosting a public meeting at the Oak Grove Community Center. He debunked social media rumors about the intentions of the center and emphasized their mission to restore lives and shelter people with a religious base.
Next steps for Pursuing Life Center
Although his search for property was initially unsuccessful in nearby Clarksville, Tennessee prior to pursuing Oak Grove, he told Christian County Now that they are pursuing that area once again.
“Unfortunately, Oak Grove was unable to move forward with supporting a homeless shelter.” Oak Grove Mayor Jackie Oliver said in response to the pivot. “That said, we genuinely wish him great success with his efforts in Clarksville, Tennessee, and commend his commitment to helping others. We hope he finds the right opportunities and partnerships to make a positive impact.”
Even though his plans have changed, Carter is still optimistic about developing the center and he hold no ill feelings about the pushback despite his efforts to communicate his vision. He said, “I felt that Oak Grove leadership and residents were very gracious in allowing that space, and I truly appreciate the time, consideration, and dialogue that took place.”
In the meantime, Carter continues his work with the nonprofit R41 in Clarksville, which provides assistance and services to the homeless and at-risk individuals through ministry. The development of the Pursuing Life Center will eventually be an off shoot of that organization.
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