The Friends Association recently unveiled a new family shelter in West Chester, expanding low-barrier emergency housing options in Chester County, writes Kenny Cooper for WHYY.
The ribbon cutting this week drew dozens of county officials, local leaders, and social service advocates, followed by a tour of the facility.
“This is not just a ribbon cutting – it’s a declaration that we will not turn our eyes away from homelessness,” said Friends Association CEO Joyce Chester. “We will not pretend it doesn’t exist. We will treat that situation with dignity, respect, and honor.”
The Friends Association received $3.2 million in federal grant funding from the Chester County Department of Community Development to purchase and renovate the property. The building at 825 Paoli Pike is now ready for use, includes office space, and carries no mortgage, allowing the nonprofit to focus its resources on its mission.
The top two floors of the building include two- and three-bedroom apartments. With the addition of ten new units, the Friends Association now serves sixteen families, including those housed at its existing six-unit Family Center in the borough.
“It is our intent that this facility will alleviate any street homelessness for families,” said Dolores Colligan, director of the county Department of Community Development.
Read more about the new shelter catering to families experiencing homelessness in WHYY.
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