Rebuilding Hope

On Wednesday, September 9, 2008Hope Haven suffered a devastating flood that spread into 52 rooms and 2 hallways. Even more unfortunate was the water was not rain water but “black water” from an overflowing storm drain on adjacent property. This water contained bacteria and carried unknown materials into the living spaces of many residents and staff, as well as offices of several counselors, resulting in the closure of a number of rooms.

Of course, our first priority was to be certain that our residents were safe and could be accommodated on our premises. We were able to accomplish this that evening except for providing on-site living quarters for some staff who live on campus and were placed elsewhere.

First Restoration Services came out that evening to spray for mold & bacteria, begin extracting the water, and start the still ongoing process of drying out the walls. Thanks to their immediate help, we were saved thousands of dollars in additional damages.

We now have had a chance to begin accounting of the damages. Unfortunately, our insurance company limited us to $25,000 in flood damage coverage—that sum was spent the first week in water removal. The total bill for the services provided by First Restoration Services totaled $89,000. Understanding our insurance dilemma, they have generously donated the $64,000 balance. We are extremely grateful to First Restoration Services for their hard work and dedication to community. They have truly been the calm after the storm. www.firstrestoration.com

Charlotte Observer, The (NC)
2008-09-13
Section: LOCAL
Edition: STATE
Page: 2B

RAIN-DAMAGED HOPE HAVEN PLEADS FOR HELP
FLOODING SOAKED THE STATE'S ONLY RESIDENTIAL DRUG-TREATMENT CENTER FOR THE HOMELESS.
Fred Clasen-Kelly frkelly@charlotteobserver.com

The state's lone residential drug-treatment center for the homeless asked for donations on Friday, two days after heavy rains flooded its northern Charlotte building.

Hope Haven, which houses recovering drug addicts and alcoholics, evacuated at least 20 residents earlier this week, President and CEO Alice Harrison said at a press conference. About 150 homeless individuals and families live in the former motel about three miles north of uptown on North Tryon Street. They receive counseling and job training and attend support group meetings there.

Rain damaged 52 rooms, soaking carpets, beds, computer equipment and personal belongings. Officials scrambled to find places for residents to stay.
On Friday, residents in treatment were doubled up in rooms with other clients living on the second floor of the two-story building, Harrison said. A storm drain problem at a neighboring property pushed rain water into the first-floor rooms, Harrison said. A resident said the water was three inches deep in some rooms. "I was sitting in my office and suddenly my ankles were covered with water," said Tiffany Hilson, director of development.

Officials said an insurance policy will cover part of the recovery cost, but Harrison said "tens of thousands of dollars" will be needed for beds, dressers, carpets and other needs. Computer problems were so extensive that workers were forced to complete payroll by hand, she said.

Resident Dudley Lovett expressed concerned for the facility's future as he pleaded for the public's help. Lovett, a recovering alcoholic, said he has lived there for six months. "If we lose this place, there's no place we can go," he said.

Want to help? Call Melissa Thompson at 704-372-8809 ext 341 for more information.

1. Hope Haven, a residential drug-treatment center for the homeless, is asking for help after the facility was flooded during recent rains.