HomeAid Atlanta has been a nonprofit pillar in the homebuilding industry since 2001, providing construction, education and community engagement for those at risk or experiencing homelessness. Powered by industry volunteers since 2008, HomeAid Care Days have provided more than $845,000 in free repairs, upgrades and maintenance for organizations across metro Atlanta. This year, HomeAid Atlanta is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

On September 24, HomeAid Atlanta held a Care Day at Forsyth County Family Haven. Volunteers from the Professional Women in Building Atlanta Council, National Association of Home Builders at Kennesaw State University Chapter (KSU NAHB), Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia (MBAG) and Century Communities spent the day providing much-needed repairs for the 21-bed living facility. The facility offers solace and shelter for women and children suffering from and fleeing domestic violence.

Throughout the day, 40 volunteers refreshed the facility with paint and landscaping materials. Improvements to the grounds included new flowers, mulch and plants, creating a beautiful green space for inhabitants. The kitchen, dining room, living room, office and children’s play area also received a much-needed fresh coat of paint. As many nonprofits do, Family Haven operates within a very tight budget. Free services provided by Care Days empower the organization to save money on necessary repairs and upkeep to redirect funds and energy toward the residents. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers and HomeAid Atlanta supporters, this Care Day provided $8,000 in savings for Family Haven.

A recent domestic violence survivor arrived at the facility sustaining multiple injuries, including broken bones and severe head wounds from her fiancé. She was initially in denial about the incident and faced many life obstacles regarding mental health, employment and housing. Family Haven provided the pillars necessary for her to overcome her abuse and denial through counseling and housing.

She shared, “I realize now that I don’t have to live in fear.” The anonymous survivor recently gained employment with the Atlanta Public School System and permanent housing to move forward in a life free from violence.

This was the second Care Day at Forsyth County Family Haven. The first Care Day at the facility in 2019 provided indoor and outdoor repairs and maintenance in the facility’s longer-term housing units. Supporters donated holiday gifts for residential families, houseware items from HomeAid’s Stock the House Drive and diapers from HomeAid’s Essentials Drive.

To learn more about HomeAid Atlanta, visit the website for news, volunteer opportunities and information about community impact.