Columbia Star

1963        Celebrating 60 Years      2023

Haven Home acquires first property through generous donation



Haven Home’s director Dylan Gunnels (l) and founder Lauren Taylor (r) with the resident of its first property.

Haven Home, a non-profit organization taking a holistic approach to housing justice in the Midlands, has acquired its first property. The single family home is located in Columbia and will add to the inventory of much-needed affordable housing units in the area. The property was donated to Haven Home by a generous donor who believes in the mission and wanted to do his/her part.

“I had the ability to give back to the community and play a small role in ending the affordable housing crisis,” the anonymous donor said. “I’m excited to see how Haven Home will utilize the property and serve the resident’s needs.”

Haven Home will maintain the property, ensuring it is consistently safe, equitable, and affordable. The organization will also provide services to the current resident, such as financial literacy, credit repair, skillshare workshops, and career development.

“This mission is about providing brick and mortar structures to those that need it most, but ultimately it is about the life changing opportunities we hope to provide the residents we serve,” stated Dylan Gunnels, director of Haven Home. “We are happy to have our first resident who we can walk in solidarity towards their goals and dreams.”

The housing crisis is a growing problem across the nation and particularly here in the state of South Carolina. Haven Home is addressing the problem head-on, with the confidence that its market-based solution will work and the passion to make it work. Acquiring properties and adding to the inventory of affordable units is a key component, and the organization is thankful for community partnerships and donations.

“We are extremely grateful to our community partners and donors who have already given of their time, resources, and expertise to see our communities changed for the better,” said Lauren Taylor, founder of Haven Home. “The donation of this property is a catalyst for our organization, and will propel us to do this work as quickly as possible.”

Learn more about Haven Home by visiting www.havenhome.org.

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