The Haven at First and Market (formerly called The First Street Church Project) is slated to open at the end of November 2009 – around Thanksgiving. The Haven will serve as a one-stop comprehensive resource center for the homeless and those at risk for homelessness. TJACH, Thomas Jefferson Coalition for the Homeless, is the lead organization behind The Haven.
What does The Haven mean for PACEM?
The Haven presents opportunities for PACEM to build upon its strong partnerships with others serving the needs of people who are experiencing homelessness. PACEM staff will have office space in The Haven and during the winter shelter months, PACEM Guest Intake will move from Holy Comforter Church into The Haven.
Because The Haven is not designed to be an emergency night shelter, PACEM will continue to partner with congregations, and community volunteers to provide a place to sleep, and the warmth of human kindness to our homeless neighbors throughout the cold months of winter.
PACEM is a committed participant of TJACH’s community plan to end homelessness. We look forward to the opening of this exceptional community resource which will consist of the following four basic elements:
- The Annex – The upper floors will provide offices and conference space for TJACH service providers, such as PACEM, MACAA, Region Ten, Piedmont Workforce, and other agencies.
- The Day Haven –The first floor of the Annex and will provide a space for people to gather during the day. Clients have access to service agencies, internet, mail, storage, showers and laundry facilities.
- Kay’s Kitchen – This commercial-grade kitchen will provide breakfast five days and bag lunches for those who work. An on-the-job training program in the food service industry.
- The Sanctuary – This large space on the ground floor will be a multi-use venue for performances and other cultural/arts events. TJACH will schedule the space and assess fees on a sliding scale basis.