Have you ever wondered what The Haven’s origin story is? It all started in the early 1970’s by Sober Sisters, a group of women in recovery. Here’s the story in their own words. Please note that some of the terminology is outdated but it’s kept here for the purpose of showing the original context.
Early in 1970 several women alcoholics who had their disease under control saw and felt the need for a home-like place in order that other women, still suffering, could come for helping guidance and to begin their own recovery program.
This goal demanded determination, perseverance, and patience, but mostly compassion and human kindness, all of which these few had in abundance. However, what they lacked was money to furnish and stock the home-to-be. Undaunted they went “begging” which, in addition to their personal contributions, resulted in obtaining a dwelling in a friendly neighborhood, furnishing it tastefully, and opening its doors to those who needed it.
They named it The Haven.
(At this juncture it is amusing to report that these women wore usual daytime attire while soliciting from bankers, suppliers etc. but made little progress. They then returned wearing their finest clothes, furs, and jewelry and found the aforementioned most receptive as well as generous.)
The original ladies called themselves Big Sisters and as some residents continued in their recovery the auxiliary grew in numbers as well as in services to be performed. They and some other volunteers help with fundraising programs for residents needs, rides to and from hospitals, doctors, court hearings etc. and generally help The Haven to remain a friendly love-sharing home.
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