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The Shelter
Safe Harbor operates a low-demand, emergency shelter providing for the needs of homeless men and women who,
because of addictions or mental health issues, do not qualify for other shelter programs operating in the area.
We are willing to serve those with no place else to turn while maintaining a level of expectations that seeks
to build self esteem and empower individuals most in need.
The shelter is designed to support 20 homeless men and now our new program for 20 homeless single women.
Our women’s program opened on March 13, 2010 in a rain storm that was the worst of the year.
However, they were very thankful and full of joy to see their new home. The shelters is arranged
in a dormitory style with separate bathrooms, shower faculties, new washers and dryers and now
even a new kitchenette for the women living on the second floor. In addition to all these new
facilities the men and women are provided, free of charge, clothing, personal needs and other
items to help them maintain or even regain their self-esteem
As a volunteer driven organization, Safe Harbor uses experienced and new volunteers and professional
staff to support the shelter and all its needs. In 2010 Safe Harbor had over 380 volunteers working
in the kitchen and shelter supporting or men and women during the day and evening. During our
Community Lunch Program we have served over 46,000 meals a year. Most of these meals have been
donated by individuals, faith communities and even corporations, just to name a few. Without
these supports the shelter would not be able to operate as well as it does. Safe Harbor would
not exist without these special individuals.
New and returning residents receive an intake interview designed to identify immediate needs,
understand their history and begin the process of their recovery. The shelter rules are also reviewed at this
time to ensure residents understand that proper conduct is expected at all times. An action plan is developed
for each resident and reviewed weekly by the Shelter Review Committee to ensure each resident's goals and needs
are being met. Working in concert with various referral agencies, these plans are designed to help residents achieve
greater self-esteem, a higher level of independence and more stability. In addition, various activities are scheduled
throughout the week to help residents deal with issues such as drug and alcohol addiction, life skills, budgeting and employment.
Safe Harbor also operates a Community Hot Lunch Program that is open weekdays to all low income men, women and children
in the West Chester area. This meal is all too often the only nutritious food many people receive on a daily basis.
This program also serves as an entry point to the shelter for individuals and provides a means of supporting past
residents who have moved on to independent housing.
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Safe Harbor of Greater West Chester
20 North Matlack Street
West Chester, PA 19380
610-692-6550
Shelter@SafeHarborofGWC.Org
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©2010 Safe Harbor of Greater West Chester
©2010 All photographs by Daniel Williams Photography, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Unlawful to Reproduce
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