WAYNESBORO, Pa. – “The shelter so many in our community need, needs help.”
That’s the greeting of a letter to introduce the launching of a capital campaign to support New Hope Shelter, “that has given a hand up to thousands of men, women and children who would likely have been homeless without it,” according to Mandi Howell, executive director.
The shelter, established in 1995 at 25 S. Potomac St. in an old sewing factory, assists about 150 people a year, she added.
“We are at a tipping point in projects that can’t be done in small steps,” she added. “We are working with local contractors and engineers to address the urgent needs of a new roof, new windows on the second and third floors, new subflooring in the kitchen area and other major repairs.
“Phase one, expected to cost about $350,000, is to make the necessary repairs in preparation for the next phase,” according to Howell. “Phase two will help create several one- and two-bedroom efficiency units and perhaps a section of boardinghouse type housing, primarily on the second and third floors, while keeping most homeless shelter segments on the first floor. Transitional housing residents would pay affordable amounts that would be enough to sustain those parts of the building.”
Howell said she hopes phase one is completed within the next six months, and the shelter is still soliciting bids for phase two. “These campaigns will help put the shelter on solid ground for the foreseeable future,” she added.
“We are excited about the repairs and new construction to come and are grateful to everyone who makes this possible,” Howell said.
“This is a lot to take on, but I’m confident that the community will help us reach our goals – we’ve stayed afloat because of their donations of time, money and work.” In addition, the shelter is supported by grants, profits from its thrift store “and because of the work of a competent and caring staff, and many of our residents, the building has come a long way in renovations and improvements,” she said.
The shelter is mailing letters to businesses and residents. “If you are missed, please visit our website to make a donation or mail it to the shelter, with capital campaign on the memo line of your check. Every little bit helps,” she noted. The shelter also hopes to host other fundraising events, possibly a puzzle mania, a competitive team-based jigsaw competition, bingo or an activity at a local brewery, according to Howell.
In addition to financial support, “we’re always looking for volunteers. And if you’d like a tour to see what we’re doing to the building, reach out,” encouraged Howell.
For more information or to donate, readers may call 717-762-5840 or visit: www.newhopeshelter.org.
