RALEIGH, N.C.–A groundbreaking was held in Smithfield, North Carolina for a new home for Harbor House of Johnston County – a safe haven for victims of domestic violence. SECU Foundation Board of Directors Chair McKinley Wooten, Jr. joined other community supporters and affiliated partners for the event, presenting a $500,000 grant to SECU Harbor House on behalf of State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) members who fund the SECU Foundation. The grant will assist with the construction of the 10,000 square foot residence and also complete Harbor House’s capital campaign efforts for the facility that will provide additional space and privacy for shelter residents.
Established in 1984 with just $500 and a donated telephone line, Harbor House is Johnston County’s only non-profit agency providing safe accommodations, advocacy services, resources and programs for families suffering from domestic violence and sexual assault. With substantial support through in-kind donations and fundraising activities from the community, Harbor House has already helped thousands of families achieve independence despite the great need for expansion of its current 2-home facility.
The funds granted for SECU Harbor House will work in conjunction with permanent construction loan financing provided through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA). Through its partnership with NCHFA, SECU Foundation is also helping to further reduce the financial burden for Harbor House by providing funding for a $600,000, 0% construction loan.
“It’s an honor to be here representing State Employees’ Credit Union members to celebrate the new SECU Harbor House in Johnston County,” remarked Wooten. “We are proud to assist an organization that has a 31-year history of providing abused victims with safe refuge and services during a traumatic time in their lives. We are also happy to partner with North Carolina Housing Finance Agency to further lessen the financial burden with construction loan funding. We look forward to SECU Harbor House opening its new facility and continuing to help Johnston County families in need.”