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First Presbyterian Church of Asheville
     Claimed by the Triune God, we worship only God
          and are called by the Holy Spirit
               to share the boundary breaking love of Christ
                    in our life together, in the heart of Asheville,
                         and in the whole world.

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Saturday Sanctuary - Our Neighbors

The Saturday Sanctuary is intended to primarily benefit the homeless of Asheville.   Below are some facts about our neighbors compiled in the report “Point in Time Homeless Count, Asheville, NC”:

In January of 2008, 509 homeless people were counted in Asheville. 

  • These people were found both in shelters and “sleeping rough”.  
  •  Of those counted
    • about half were employed
    • 16% received disability benefits
    • 6% received veteran’s benefits
    • 31% received food stamps
    • The average monthly income was $355.75
  • 158 of those counted reported having a mental illness
  • 124 reported having a chronic substance abuse problem
  • 45 reported having a history of victimization in a domestic situation

In general:

§         The homeless are frequent victims of violent crimes

§         Between 20%and 50% percent of homeless women are homeless as a direct result of domestic violence (National Coalition to End Homelessness;  Family Violence Prevention Fund)

§         It is estimated that 25% of the homeless have serious mental health issues

§         It is estimated that 46% of the homeless have a history of substance abuse (National Alliance to End Homelessness)

During the months of February and March, 2009, the number of people visiting in the Community Room varied from 6- 38.  A majority of the visitors were male, and many reported having learned about the shelter through AHOPE, the day shelter which is open during the week and on Saturday and Sunday mornings.   A majority of those who visited reported feeling welcomed and safe.

 

Set up and Clean up Opening and Closing Ritual Our Neighbors Personal Health and Safety Supportive Listening

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