Rose Haven Temporarily Changing Service Model to Safely Support Guests

COVID-19 UPDATE

Rose Haven Friends,

Together we are navigating a challenging time in our community and in our world. As with most social service agencies, this coronavirus pandemic has led to a lack of human and in-kind resources for Rose Haven at a time when demand is high and will inevitably be growing.

There are serious concerns about the lack of shelter beds available, and this problem will get worse before it gets better. Overnight shelters for those without a home are even more scarce right now. Existing shelters are not accepting any new people, and are trying to distance those who are already there. In addition, we anticipate the number of people experiencing housing, food insecurity and trauma to escalate as the economic toll of this public health crisis evolves.

Rose Haven is heavily reliant on volunteer support, and for understandable reasons this has nearly evaporated for us. Additionally, we are having trouble providing adequate space within our tiny shelter for social distancing. We know it is in our communities’ best interest to temporarily alter Rose Haven’s service model to protect the health of our guests, volunteers and staff.

The good news is that Rose Haven will be continuing to offer services. Our hours of operation will be 9-11am and 1-3pm Monday through Friday until further notice.

Services will include:

At the door support – including nutritious food, water, emergency clothing, diapers, wipes, hygiene products, mail service, pet food and other needed items
Bathrooms and hand washing sink usage inside
Outdoor supplies including tents, tarps, sleeping bags (as supplies last)
Additional direct service allocations for rental and utility assistance
Love…’cause everyone can use more of this right now!

For those of you in a position to support our women, children and gender diverse guests, help can be provided by:

Ordering needed supplies from our Amazon Wish List to support those with no alternatives but to live outside
Making a financial donation to provide rental assistance and utilities support to people at risk of losing their homes

Please note: We are not accepting donations of general clothing, children’s clothing and household items through March in order to focus on high priority needs.

Although we are facing some great obstacles, I feel honored to serve alongside a truly selfless staff at Rose Haven who are prioritizing this mission work. And, as an agency completely reliant on community to exist, I am in awe of the kindness and generosity of people like you during a time when everything feels so fragile. Together we are stronger.

Thank you with all my heart,

Katie O’Brien

Executive Director