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Helpmate Announces New Emergency Shelter in Asheville

Rendering of Joy's House, an emergency shelter for domestic violence survivors in Asheville

News Summary

Helpmate, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding domestic violence victims, plans to build Joy’s House, an emergency shelter in Asheville. The facility will expand bed capacity for survivors from 20 to 43 and include private living options and communal amenities. Estimated construction costs are $16 million, with a matching donation opportunity for community contributions. Helpmate emphasizes the importance of local support in addressing the pressing need for safe accommodations for victims of domestic violence.

Asheville – Helpmate, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting domestic violence victims, has announced plans to construct a new emergency shelter named Joy’s House. This initiative aims to combat the growing need for safe accommodations for survivors in the Asheville area.

The Joy’s House shelter will significantly expand the number of beds available for domestic violence survivors, increasing capacity from 20 to 43 beds. This expansion seeks to provide immediate refuge for those escaping abusive situations, responding to an urgent request from the community for more resources.

Joy’s House will feature a range of living options designed to promote privacy and comfort for families. The facility will include one-person, two-person, and three-person efficiency suites, allowing survivors to choose accommodations that best suit their needs. In addition to individual living spaces, the shelter will incorporate upgraded security systems to ensure the safety of its residents.

The new shelter is set to provide a variety of communal amenities, including children’s play areas, shared living spaces, a support group room for residents, and a dining area that promotes communal dining and gathering. These enhancements aim to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and community among survivors.

The total cost for constructing Joy’s House is estimated at $16 million, and Helpmate is currently in the final phase of fundraising. The organization is actively seeking contributions from local businesses, organizations, and community members to help bring the project to fruition. As part of this effort, the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation has pledged a $500,000 challenge gift, offering to match every dollar donated towards the shelter. This initiative provides a powerful incentive for community involvement, as contributions made during this phase will effectively be doubled.

Helpmate’s Executive Director highlighted the vital role community support plays in the success of such projects. Every monetary contribution, regardless of size, is crucial in ensuring the completion of Joy’s House and the services it will provide to those in need.

Helpmate encourages interested individuals and organizations to make donations through the organization’s website. Contributions will directly support the construction and operational costs associated with Joy’s House, further expanding the network of assistance available to domestic violence survivors in the Asheville region.

Helpmate has been a critical resource for domestic violence victims in Asheville, providing emergency shelter, advocacy, and a host of other services aimed at dismantling the barriers survivors face in escaping abuse. The organization’s commitment to enhancing domestic violence resources reflects a broader community effort to address this pressing social issue.

The need for additional sheltering options in Asheville arises from an increasing demand for safe spaces for individuals fleeing domestic violence. Reports indicate that many survivors often face a lack of available accommodations, forcing them to remain in dangerous situations or seek shelter far from their homes and support networks. The establishment of Joy’s House is poised to enhance the sense of safety and security for many families, ultimately contributing to a more supportive community framework for survivors.

As the construction of Joy’s House approaches, community backing will be essential for its success. Helpmate is hopeful that with increased awareness and engagement, the coming months will see a surge of contributions that will ultimately enable the opening of this vital resource.