At REST, we know that safe and stable housing is a critical piece of the puzzle when recovering from trafficking and building economic independence. In 2012 we opened our first transitional housing – REST House South. On Wednesday, November 16, we celebrated the opening of our second house, REST House North, with a ribbon cutting and open house.
REST House North was made possible through a collaboration with Compass Housing Alliance, who invited REST to take over management of the house, and dedicated funding from The Jensen Project. In December 2021, REST held a fundraiser to cover additional costs to remodel and furnish the new living spaces. Now it is ready to welcome the first residents.
“Dozens of volunteers have donated labor to help with the flooring and the painting. It’s just been a real team effort. Our staff has really come together to make sure this feels like home.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house drew together donors, supporters, volunteers, staff, and survivors, including Cassie, who will be moving into REST House North.
“Anyone’s journey to REST can be complicated. The vulnerability that comes with accepting yourself as an agent for your own destiny is a lot. Learning responsibility, accountability, and more while grasping at stability......emotions are running high. REST makes sure you don’t have to be alone.”
REST Community Services Supervisor Jessica Clayton believes safety, support, and stability are factors whose importance cannot be overstated.
“I see more than just a collection of walls, rooms, and roof. I see infinite opportunities. I see a place, not just to rest but to grow, a safe haven and a chance for stability. It is my hope and belief that all those who work with us see the same too.”
REST House North and South are completely furnished with a total of 11 beds for adults ages 18 and older of all genders to stay rent-free for up to a year while they work on their personal goals and access supportive services through REST and other community partners.
REST House North has five private bedrooms giving each survivor-resident the privacy and security they need to rest, recover, and stabilize. The rest of the house is a communal living space that includes a kitchen, dining area, upper and lower living rooms, bathrooms, and an office/craft room.
While living in either house, residents can work with REST Housing Specialists to prepare for a future transition into permanent housing. They also have access to REST’s services, including intensive case management, employment services, peer support, and more.
“It is impossible to gain or maintain employment, address mental health or substance use needs, or pursue any other goals without the safety of a secure location to call home.”