Christos House domestic violence shelter is launching a 60-day fundraising campaign to secure the final $280,000 needed to complete its new tiny homes shelter village for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
The organization has raised $570,000 over the past year toward the project, which will expand its current emergency housing capacity and offer greater privacy and autonomy for families in crisis.
"We are incredibly grateful for the immense support our community has shown for our Tiny Homes Project," said Executive Director Kelli Neel. "Raising $570,000 within a year brings us close to providing more immediate, safe and private shelter spaces for survivors.”
Reaching the remaining $280,000 goal will allow contractors to complete site development and utility hookups before residents transition into the units.
“Reaching our final goal of an additional $280,000 will allow us to complete construction of the site before we move our current residents into the tiny homes,” Neel said. “Having the monies to seamlessly transition our emergency shelter services will ensure there is no added disruption to our efforts while expanding our capacity to protect women and children in crisis.”
Emphasizing gratitude for the support received thus far, Christos House Board President Traci Wiley noted that fully funding the project ensures that local survivors are the direct beneficiaries of community generosity. Such generosity, she added, not only aligns with the organization’s mission, but “the mission we all share in making a difference in people’s lives.”
Established in 1982 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 1985, Christos House operates an emergency shelter, outreach programs and a resale store serving Carter, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Shannon, Texas and Wright counties.
The organization’s stated mission is to offer services that provide community members with “a safe place to make positive changes in a supportive atmosphere, while empowering survivors on their journey toward healing and independence.” The Tiny Homes Project represents a critical step forward in expanding the organization's existing emergency shelter capacity, allowing Christos House to provide immediate safety to more survivors, officials emphasized.
Tax-deductible contributions can be made by individuals, businesses and organizations by going online to christoshousemo.org, in person 125 Jefferson Ave. in West Plains, or by mail to P.O. Box 771, West Plains, MO 65775. For more information, call 417-256-3408.
The Christos House 24/7 Crisis Hotline is available at 800-611-5853.
