The Haven will get a handful of upgrades to make it more functional for at-risk guests or those experiencing homelessness.
Work will begin on Monday and continue through the end of the month; however, the day shelter will remain operational. During the two-week period, The Haven will continue to provide daily breakfast, showers, bathrooms, hygiene supplies and access to personal bins and mail from 7 a.m. to noon. Temporary facilities have been moved outside while maintenance is being completed.
Housing program services and the Homeless Information Line will continue with standard operations.
“More than a year of collaborative work has made this project into a reality,” said Ocean Aiello, operations director for The Haven. “The product: a more beautiful and functional day shelter space, deepening our commitment to radical hospitality and continuing efforts to help individuals exit homelessness – welcoming guests in, no matter their condition, as they move from crisis to stability.”
Upgrades include:
- replacing the flooring in the dining room with industrial-grade epoxy flooring
- refurbishing the first-floor bathrooms with new fixtures
- accessibility improvements
- adding privacy partitions
These interior updates will create spaces that have greater functionality for the organization and that are safer and more welcoming for shelter guests.
The work is being done in partnership with Building Goodness Foundation and UVA Facilities Management.
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BGF contributed connections with local construction professionals and a portion of the project funding through C’ville Builds, a coalition of local builders, community members, donors and volunteers who complete building and repair projects in Charlottesville and the surrounding area.
UVA Facilities Management will provide personnel to oversee volunteers and construction.
Abby Tanner is serving as the volunteer project manager, coordinating the schedule, budget and contractor partners to make the project possible.
Alex Dalton, construction administration manager from UVA Facilities Management, is also offering project support.
The Haven is located at 112 W. Market St. in Charlottesville.
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Crystal Graham
