Grace Harbor Homeless Shelter plans to open in Dent County later this year. While the volunteers all attend or lead Salem United Methodist Church, the project will be a community effort, organizers say.
Grace Harbor will host a carnival and concert fundraiser May 22 on the grounds at Salem United Methodist Church.
The carnival takes place from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Games require tickets, which can be purchased at the event.
“Each individual, family or group is responsible for their own game. Some will supply prizes. We are still looking for additional games,” said Jenny Summers, one of the event organizers.
Music begins at 5:30 p.m. with Bill Bryant and Friends playing bluegrass and gospel. Award-winning fiddle player Gerald Jones will join Bryant, as well as others. Collin Nash takes the stage at 7 p.m. Nash is a local favorite, playing country originals and covers. He currently resides in Nashville.
“It’s exciting to me to see thoughtful and progressive projects like this happening back home. I genuinely love this town and the people in it, and anything that’s good for those two things is something we should all get behind,” said Nash.
Tickets can be purchased in advance from Kathy Bryant (739-9163) or Jenny Summers (247-7062). Children under age 12 are free. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Bring a lawn chair, blanket and your family and friends.
The funds raised benefit Grace Harbor and its mission. Cost is $20 per ticket in advance, or $35 for two. The day of the concert, tickets are $25.
The plan for the shelter is to give priority to youth, children and their parents.
The group will encourage schools and law enforcement to assist in identifying those in need of the services provided at the shelter. Its intent will be to provide temporary housing defined by their situation. An interview will identify needs and set goals for housing, employment and counseling as needed. House rules will be set and followed to keep volunteers and those being served at the shelter safe. Two volunteers, one male and one female, will be at the shelter 24 hours a day, seven days per week, when in use.
The group does not plan to use government grants, but will rely heavily on monetary gifts and donations. Several private donations have already begun to contribute to the mission of Grace Harbor.
Follow the Grace Harbor Facebook page for updates and ways to give. Grace Harbor uses the acronym Grace: God Raises Abundant Community Effort.
Monetary donations can be deposited at The Bank of Salem, or mailed to SUMC, with attention to Grace Harbor.
SUMC is located at 801 E. Scenic Rivers Blvd.
