New “Safe Houses of Birmingham” program offers housing to residents in need
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Several Birmingham-based organizations have teamed up to establish Safe Houses of Birmingham, a new program that offers affordable long-term + free short-term housing to individuals who need help to achieve long-term stability.
About Safe Houses of Birmingham
When people experience domestic violence, they are often separated from the resources they need to escape—specifically, the resources needed to find and obtain housing. Unfortunately, many are forced to choose between domestic violence and homelessness.
A new program in Birmingham wants to change that.
Safe Houses of Birmingham offers a range of housing solutions to help meet the needs of the community, including:
- Affordable long-term housing + free temporary housing for individuals escaping domestic violence
- Transitional housing for individuals navigating challenges related to justice involvement or substance use
The program was launched by Rebirth Community Corporation in partnership with three local organizations:
“Emergency Housing was created after repeated stories of individuals fearing losing their lives at the hands of a loved one. Growing up in a home where domestic violence was present, I know firsthand the trauma that results from witnessing this as a child.
Recently, we were able to assist an educator escaping domestic violence who was waiting for her monthly paycheck to be able to pay a deposit on an apartment. Over 10 days, we were able to give her groceries, and put her in a hotel.
We were grateful to be able to help her, but what if we could have pointed her to a home where she could sleep in safety? The Safe Houses of Birmingham will allow us to help make that possibility a reality for as many families as we can.”
Pastor Doug Taylor, President, Rebirth Community Corporation
In addition to offering emergency housing for survivors of domestic violence, Safe Houses of Birmingham will provide affordable housing for low-income renters.
First Safe Houses of Birmingham home opens Sept. 17
Rebirth Community Corporation will unveil the first Safe Houses of Birmingham home at 1PM on Tuesday, Sept. 17.
Located in Kingston at 1209 44th Place North, the new home will offer a secure and supportive environment to help those in need rebuild their lives and achieve lasting stability.
“Rebirth Community Corporation plans to build and renovate homes in the area, create a community garden, a grocery store and center for wrap around services including mental health counseling, entrepreneurship coaching, and workforce development along with these properties.
Everyone deserves a safe home. Safe Houses of Birmingham exists to make sure that happens.”
Pastor Doug Taylor, President, Rebirth Community Corporation
In addition to this new home, Safe Houses of Birmingham has plans to construct housing on 56 additional lots around Birmingham.
Excited to see new resources available for people in need in Birmingham? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
