Tonight, Millcreek Township Supervisors will vote on whether the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel School can be rezoned so the Erie City Mission can turn it into The Haven —
a transitional shelter for women and children. Mission leaders say the need is growing.
“this is the former mt. Carmel school — and tonight’s vote will determine whether it becomes a shelter for women and children.” Stephanie Logue reported.
The Erie City Mission wants to turn this nearly 39-thousand-square-foot school into The Haven — a transitional housing program designed specifically for women and mothers with children.
Nearly 225 women and children in Erie County experienced homelessness last year. And nationally, women and kids make up one-third of the homeless population — and the numbers keep rising.
“there’s a wonderful organization serving women, but there’s not enough beds and so we set out to raise money and search for a property that would allow us to have women and children ” Brian Johansson, the Chief Executive Officer for Erie City Mission explained.
Inside, the plan includes private family rooms and many other helpful programs along with a 24/7 staff.
Johansson says the mission is ready to move forward — but the zoning decision is now in the hands of Millcreek Township Supervisors. But he feels confident based on reaction from the community.
“out of town hall meeting two weeks ago for the community and we had about 85 neighbors there and frankly it was a overwhelmingly supportive meeting. They were very excited to see this happen” Brian Johansson, the Chief Executive Officer for Erie City Mission said.
He also shares this is a calling from their faith to help serve Erie.
“yeah, we’re really believe this is the direction of God’s leading us in and we believe that we’ve been able to raise enough money to do this and so we’re excited about the women and children we’re gonna be able to serve
” Brian Johansson, the Chief Executive Officer for Erie City Mission shared.