The port will receive a handful of upgrades to make it more functional for at-risk guests or the homeless.
The work begins on Monday and lasts until the end of the month; However, the day shelter remains operational. During the two-week period, The Haven will continue to provide daily breakfast, showers, restrooms, toiletries, and access to personal trash cans and mail from 7 a.m. to noon. While maintenance work is completed, temporary facilities have been moved outside.
Housing program services and the homeless information line will continue with standard operations.
“More than a year of joint work has made this project a reality,” he said Ocean AielloOperations Manager for The Haven. “The product: a more beautiful and functional day shelter that deepens our commitment to radical hospitality and continues our efforts to help people emerge from homelessness – welcoming guests regardless of their condition as they transition from crisis to stability.”
Upgrades include:
- Replacing dining room flooring with industrial grade epoxy flooring
- Renovation of first floor bathrooms with new fixtures
- Accessibility improvements
- Adding privacy partitions
This interior modernization creates spaces that provide greater functionality for the organization and are safer and more welcoming for the shelter's guests.
The work is carried out in collaboration with Building Goodness Foundation And UVA Facility Management.
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BGF contributed contacts to local construction experts and provided part of the project financing C'ville is buildinga coalition of local contractors, community members, donors and volunteers who undertake construction and repair projects in Charlottesville and the surrounding area.
UVA Facilities Management will provide staff to monitor volunteers and construction.
Abby Tanner serves as volunteer project manager and coordinates the schedule, budget and contractors to make the project possible.
Alex Dalton, construction administration manager for UVA Facilities Management, also provides project support.
The Haven is located at 112 W. Market St. in Charlottesville.