Back in January, we discussed the potential of Jericho Road Community Health Center, seeking to convert the former Bristol Home at 1500 Main Street to an emergency “Vive” shelter for approximately 100 asylum seekers.
In order to make that dream a reality, Vive Shelter – a program of Jericho Road Community Health Center – has successfully launched A Path to Hope: Vive Capital Campaign. To that end, thus far the campaign has managed to raise more than $3.3 million, towards its $6 million goal. Now, the organization is embarking upon a series of public fundraising efforts, including a Community Challenge to raise an additional $60,000. Five community members have collectively pledged to match up to $30,000 in donations received by December 31, 2022.
“Vive has been part of more than 100,000 journeys to safety since its founding in 1984,” said Dr. Myron Glick, founder and CEO for Jericho Road. “Today, our community comes together in its commitment to build a new home for Vive to ensure this warm and welcoming refuge continues to serve our neighbors from all over the world, for many years to come.”
Leading the fundraising effort thus far is community philanthropist and entrepreneur Scott Bieler, who, along with a number of other significant donors, made it possible to acquire the 1500 Main Street building, now known as the Scott Bieler Foundation Vive Shelter.
As the largest Asylum seeking shelter in the United States, Vive will continue its long standing history of providing safe refuge for those fleeing persecution and other desperate conditions from across the world.
Other donors include M&T Bank Charitable Foundation, Independent Health, Lawley Insurance, Rich Family Foundation, Youth Time Foundation, Paul A. Safrin Foundation, and the Peter & Elizabeth Tower Foundation.
“The support of over 20 gifts to A Path to Hope: The Campaign For Jericho Road’s Vive Shelter made by local foundations, individual donors, church partners, community leaders, board members, volunteers and staff during the silent phase of the campaign was vital to our being able to announce such a significant total to date,” said Magdalena Nichols, Chief Operating Officer, Jericho Road Community Health Center.
“We are incredibly grateful for those who have invested in this project to date. The impact is remarkable and tangible as we change the trajectory of the lives of those who seek asylum in our city, town, and community,” said Scott Bieler, campaign co-chairperson.
Vive’s residents are:
A mix of individuals and families passing through on their way to Canada (short-term residents) Those who wish to make an asylum claim in the United States (long-term residents)Vive also serves immigrant survivors of human trafficking and immigrant survivors of intimate partner violence
The new building, which is a significant step up form the organization’s former location, will include:
Smaller dorm rooms that will allow individuals and families to have their own private living space Kitchen and cafeteria Classroom/computer lab Recreation areas including an indoor playroom and outdoor playground Quiet room Barbershop/Salon Legal office An Article 28 medical clinic open only to Vive residents
Jericho road plans to complete renovations by the end of the year and move Vive’s operations to 1500 Main Street in spring of 2023.
For more information about the campaign and to donate to the Community Challenge visit www.vive.jrchc.org.
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