After more than a year of displacement due to a fire, Peaceful Paths shelter for victims of domestic abuse welcomed the public to its open house Thursday.
An electrical fire destroyed the facility in February 2009, forcing the center to operate out of temporary locations.
Last June, the new building reopened to aid victims.
“The community was very instrumental in making sure we could get back into the building,”said Theresa Harrison, the executive director of Peaceful Paths.
Although the fire was difficult for Peaceful Paths, Harrison said she believes the new design of the house allows the center to improve the help it gives to those affected by domestic abuse.
“The first office we purchased was ‘as is’ and there was little we could do to [make] changes,” Harrison said. “Here, we could design the office to meet safety and support needs for clients.”
The new additions include private waiting spaces, counseling rooms and meeting rooms for victims and families that are going through a crisis.
According to Harrison, the community helped fundraise, provide temporary locations when the building could not be used and provide materials and service for construction.
Although Peaceful Paths was given financial support from the community, the center was not able to rebuild debt-free. They have a $50,000 mortgage that must be paid by July.
Supporters can help Peaceful Paths by buying a personalized brick, sponsoring a room or program. or donating items on the center’s wish list.
The wish list items include toilet paper, cleaning supplies and gas cards so that Peaceful Paths can put the money that would have been spent on those items toward their debt.
For those who have questions or need assistance, Peaceful Paths has trained advocates on staff 24 hours a day who can listen, give advice and provide assistance with the center’s services.
For more information, call 352-377-5690.
