Back in 2017, the UNFoundation supported a burgeoning effort dubbed Homes & Havens to create healing spaces in multiple homes for women in recovery. They partner with local organizations that are already working to assist women out of their initial crisis. These are usually residential programs that last anywhere from a few months up to two years. After a woman is referred to them by one of their partners, they begin the process of creating a haven in her own home. It has been a big success, and they are now extending their trauma-informed design services to the agencies that help.
The Children's Advocacy Center in Chattanooga reached out to them and asked for help designing and decorating two family rooms within their agency. These rooms are where families wait and meet with a caseworker while their child begins a forensic exam after being sexually assaulted or abused. They are also used by three different agencies within Chattanooga all working with victims of trauma and will serve multiple caseworkers, parents, guardians, and children during their visit to the Family Justice Center.
These rooms should feel like home, and embrace all that enter them. Once complete the space will be a comforting, calming, and therapeutic space for families and children during such a traumatic time. Currently, the spaces lack this warm, cozy home luster. The before photos are highlighted so stay tuned for photos of the completed project!