In the 2009-2010 school year, 142 children in the nine Transylvania County elementary, middle and high schools were identified as homeless at some point during the year. Most of those identified were “sofa surfing,” or temporarily living with another family. Despite having extensive services for the homeless, Transylvania County has no short-term emergency shelter for homeless families and individuals.
The mission of The Haven of Transylvania County is to assist homeless families and individuals in crisis in Transylvania County by providing safe, temporary refuge in a clean, comfortable shelter. This facility will accommodate 18 people and will be located on the grounds of The Bread of Life, a local food bank. The total cost of construction for The Haven, a 1400-square foot facility, will be $234,800. Operations are estimated to cost $90,500 per year.
The Institute for Women In Leadership at Brevard College is raising funds for The Haven to help with the costs of construction and operation. The IWIL will host an online auction of art, goods, services and trips in a MissionFish auction, through eBay. These items will be presented at a kick-off party scheduled for April 1. The auction will last from April 1 until April 14.
To donate or buy items, go to missionfish.org and search for The Haven of Transylvania County. Help us make this online auction a success. The more money raised, the faster The Haven’s doors can be opened to those who need it most.
If you have any donations or questions, please contact IWIL member Taylor Spivey at spiveytr@brevard.edu. For more information about The Haven, please visit thehavenshelter.org.
— Leighia Eggett
Institute for Women In Leadership
Brevard
