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Columbia has adopted a transitional home to benefit Second Step Housing, an organization dedicated to providing safe, affordable housing for at-risk women and families. Columbia's adoption will provide financial support to those struggling to overcome homelessness and reintegrate into society and includes funding to cover essential needs of the home including new beds, linens and carpeting.
"We've named our adopted home 'Columbia House' and look forward to getting our staff involved in furnishing and maintaining it," said Columbia Vice President of Social Responsibility, Laurie Kusch. "We'll start with a gardening party to spruce-up the yard. We'll also schedule financial education opportunities and fun social activities throughout the year."
Columbia's commitment is the first of a three-year pledge of support. Currently, Columbia House is home to five women and two children and has the potential to benefit 20 lives over the course of Columbia's adoption. In 2009, Columbia funded energy-efficient upgrades in several of the organization's 11 homes.
Second Step Housing serves clients facing a variety of challenges including domestic violence, drug or alcohol abuse, mental illness, poverty, and a lack of education and job skills. All residents are committed to goals and life plans that move them closer to economic and social self-sufficiency and family reunification. In 2009, Second Step served 80 women and 79 children in their transitional housing program. Over 75 percent of clients achieved self sufficiency and moved on to permanent housing.
Dedicated to improving the quality of life in our branch communities, Columbia is pleased to partner with Second Step Housing in serving the needs of women and children. For more information about Second Step Housing, please visit www.secondstephousing.org.
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