WEAVE opened its existing Safehouse in 2009 and has provided more than 70,000 bednights of safe shelter. The demand for safe shelter continues to grow and the needs of victims are changing.

The existing Safehouse works wells for most survivors but not all. If a victim lives in the area, the Safehouse may not be an option. We see an increasing number of survivors with service animals. This can be challenging if other survivors have a fear of dogs or experience allergies. The communal Safehouse is not ideal for some male and transgender survivors. For victims with medical needs or disabilities, greater privacy and control over the living space is crucial.

WEAVE received a forgivable $1 million loan through the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP) to support the purchase and safety upgrades of an eight unit apartment complex that has been transformed into Open House. In partnership with HomeAid Sacramento, WEAVE is able to make those repairs and renovate each unit with new fixtures and finishes.  We are incredibly grateful to the Lennar Foundation for their financial support and leadership as the project’s Builder Captain. Allstate Foundation and Intel have also provided financial support towards the costs of repairs and operations.

In a few weeks, the first residents of Open House will arrive. When they enter the door, they will find safety, support and hope thanks to our community. We will continue to share the progress of Open House and the stories of the brave survivors who stay here.

We have prepared an infographic with additional information about the project and why Open House is so important to our community. You can download and print the document, here. 

Want to get involved? Download the Open House essentials list for items we need to fill the apartments. Contact Megan Laurie for more information at mlaurie@weaveinc.org.