BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Advocates took a major step this week toward its goal of building 20 additional transitional housing apartments, thanks to a $1 million contribution from Idaho Housing and finance Association.

The donation goes toward The Advocates THRIVE Center for Safety and Healing, which will provide 20 units of transitional housing. That will double the number of The Advocates’ transitional housing apartments for those escaping domestic violence in the Wood River Valley and surrounding area.

The initiative will also provide a permanent location for the new THRIVE Kids Early learning Center and make way for four employee housing apartments.

A volunteer crew from the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood recently built a new play structure for THRIVE Kids, The Advocates’ early childhood learning center and day care facility in Hailey.

“A hundred percent of participants living in transitional housing indicate that they are more financially secure and that their well-being has increased,” said Shannon Nichols, director of development and engagement at The Advocates. “We are so grateful to Idaho Housing and Finance. Not only are they investing in transitional housing, they are investing in supporting safe families and productive futures for survivors and their children.”

The Advocates have now raised $8 million of their $10.5 million goal. (Call the Advocates’ CEO Tricia Swartling at 208-788-4191 for more information.)

The million-dollar commitment is part of Idaho Housing’s mission-related investments throughout the state. In addition to assisting first-time homebuyers and building new affordable rental housing, Idaho Housing plans to contribute almost $3.5 million in homelessness initiatives over the next year.

“Domestic violence is a major contributor to homelessness in Idaho and this investment will help provide a safe place for survivors in Blaine County,” said Gerald M. Hunter, president of the financial institution, which provides housing and economic development services. “We are proud to help The Advocates move closer to meeting their financial goal for this project.”

The Advocates were founded in 1991 to ensure that no victim of abuse or violence in Blaine, Camas, Custer and Lincoln counties have to struggle alone. The organization offers an array of services 24 hours a day, including counseling, job skills workshops and shelter.

HYGIENE KITS NEEDED

The Advocates are assembling Hygiene Supply kits to provide personal care items for individuals in need.

The kits will include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, lotion, toothpaste, Q-tips, deodorant, nail clippers, washcloth and disposable razors. Donations are accepted at The Advocates at 211 S. River St. in Hailey.