Hamilton Haven open for business

PRESCOTT — A concept which has been brewing in Nevada County is now a certainty.

Hamilton Haven formally announced its opening on April 3.

“Hamilton Haven is an excellent example of when people come together under a unified vision to create community,” said Executive Director Michele Hamilton Rhodes.

Hamilton Haven will be a temporary home for people displaced due to fire or natural disasters and other situations. This type of facility does not exist in Nevada County, and it will be available to those in Hempstead County and surrounding areas.

“Due to COVID-19 concerns we will not hold an Open House or ribbon cutting,” said Public Relations Coordinator Nathan Tidwell. “We will look to do that once restrictions are relaxed.”

Renovation of the house on East Second Street began in April 2018, and quickly became a passion for the many volunteers of Hamilton Haven.

“Throughout the project it has been amazing to see how God has blessed us; our donations came in at a rate that was steadily just ahead of our needs,” said Christy Higginbotham, who has been a key member of the renovation team. “It has been awesome to see how God in His goodness has provided for this project.”

Hamilton Haven receives tremendous backing from government leaders, local businesses, churches and non-profit organizations as well as from private donations.

“This completed house will be such a blessing to our people when they are going through the transition after a fire in their home,” said Prescott Mayor Terry Oliver. “Thanks to Michele and everyone who donated their time and effort into making this project such a success.”

“Hamilton Haven is not a handout to the downtrodden, individuals displaced due to fire, natural disasters, or other unforeseen situations but rather a hand up,” said State Representative Danny Watson. “What a vision in time of need.”

Board of Directors member and Chief Financial Officer Brenda Williams reflected on the feelings of the Hamilton Haven team.

“It has been a blessing to those of us who worked on this project – the coming together of the community and the camaraderie we have experienced,” said Williams.

The opening is only the first phase. The journey continues.

“Hamilton Haven support is necessary to address the symptoms fear, hurt, and hopelessness. Our antidote will be to serve with providing shelter,” said Rhodes.

Hamilton Haven is a 501(c)(3) organization and designated as a public charity by the Internal Revenue Service. Contributions are tax deductible. Anyone interested in contributing, volunteering or receiving more information can contact Ms. Rhodes at 870-403-8096 or Mr. Tidwell at 501-687-7844. Hamilton Haven can be reached via e-mail hamiltonhaven1@gmail.com, on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/hamilton.haven.3), Instagram (hamiltonhaven870) and Twitter (@HamiltonHaven1).