Commentary: City Of Refuge Westside Renovation Plans

The City of Refuge is like a city within a city.

The former warehouse-turned-shelter houses 300 women and children. The nonprofit offers childcare, an on-site school, medical facilities, a sanctuary for teenage moms as well as victims of sex trafficking, a chapel, and a host of other job training and social services.

Founder Bruce Deel would love to serve many more people – both inside and outside its gates.

The nonprofit launched a $25.6 million capital campaign to tackle poverty in one of the most-challenged parts of metro Atlanta.

That’s a monumental challenge, considering the last campaign was for only $1.25 million about two years ago.

But today is different. City of Refuge has become a key partner in efforts to lift the Westside communities in Atlanta.

The nonprofit has options to buy about 70 surrounding properties – about 35 more acres.

Through its Workforce Innovation Hub, people will be able to learn home improvement skills like plumbing, electricity, landscaping and residential rehabilitation.

As surrounding homes are renovated, residents of the shelter as well as people who are working at the nonprofit will be able to rent or buy them from City of Refuge.

So far, the nonprofit has raised $10.5 million toward its goal.

The City of Refuge, a beacon of hope for so many, is just getting started.

Maria Saporta is editor of SaportaReport.