Construction is starting on the Anew Center’s new a seven-unit, 19-bed family shelter in Jamestown that will serve individuals and families who have experienced homelessness.

The $5.7 million project received $4.4 million from the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Homeless Housing and Assistance Program to fund the redevelopment and relocation the Salvation Army of Jamestown’s former domestic violence shelter.

“When completed, Anew Center will redevelop a vital emergency family shelter in Chautauqua County for survivors of domestic violence, providing families and children with a safe, stable foundation and the comprehensive support services they need to heal and start a new beginning,” said Barbara Guinn, state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance commissioner. “We are grateful to the Salvation Army for their long-standing commitment to providing emergency assistance and shelter to New York individuals and families in need, and to all the state and local partners who are supporting the redevelopment of this important community project.”

Additional capital funding for Anew Center includes $250,000 from Carnahan Jackson, $187,000 from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, $250,000 from the Sheldon Foundation, $250,000 from the Lenna Foundation, $75,000 from the Cummins Foundation, as well as $307,000 in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Continuum of Care (CoC) funds. The project also received licensing support from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS).

Operating funding for project is being provided by OCFS, the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the state Office of Victim Services and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

“This new shelter in Jamestown reflects a shared mission with our sister agencies to create safer communities and ensure critical support for individuals and families impacted by violence,” said Rossana Rosado, state Division of Criminal Justice Services commissioner. “Providing a safe haven in times of crisis is essential to helping people heal and rebuild. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued support of these efforts across New York State.”

“OVS is proud of its contribution to this project, which will help domestic violence victims and survivors break away from abusive situations and begin their journeys toward healing,” Office of Victim Services Director Bea Hanson said. “We thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering strength, leadership and commitment to supporting victims of crime. In addition to collaborating with other state agencies, OVS funds more than 200 victim assistance providers across New York State that offer a range of services, including counseling, advocacy, emergency shelter and legal assistance. OVS also provides financial help to eligible crime victims for out-of-pocket expenses such as medical costs, counseling, end-of-life expenses, and lost wages.”

“We know one of the biggest barriers to finding safety for victims or survivors is a lack of housing. Leaving their homes can be extremely difficult, but in many cases, it can also be the difference between life or death,” New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Executive Director Kelli Nicholas Owens said. “Knowing there is a place waiting for them with open arms, with a team of providers who will help them find the services and supports they need, can make all the difference as they begin their healing journey. Thank you, Governor Hochul, and all our state agency partners, for making the Anew Center a reality, and for your continued efforts in making safety a top priority for all New Yorkers.”

“It is exciting to finally get to the point of a groundbreaking ceremony for The Salvation Army Anew Center Family Shelter. We are so thankful for the many people who have worked hard over the years to see this project come to fruition. We want to say thank you to our community foundations who worked with us on this project,” Major John Merchant, Salvation Army County Coordinator for Chautauqua County said. “This Shelter is evidence of the compassion and strength of the people in our community, coming together to help those who need support through some very tough times. This place will be a beacon of hope, to give our neighbors a safe and sable foundation. A place where they will get the support of a caring and compassionate staff to help them achieve a new beginning and a brighter future.”

The Homeless Housing and Assistance Program (HHAP) is an important component of Governor Hochul’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. In addition to playing a central role in the development of permanent supportive housing in New York State, HHAP provides capital funding that is vital to constructing, rehabilitating, and repairing emergency shelters.

A complete story can be found in Saturday’s edition of The Post-Journal