Coming soon: Windows on the new shelter

Sheetrock is up in some places, and the windows have started to arrive at the construction site for our new shelter! 

We’ve been calling the two-building complex “the new shelter,” but this is so much more than a new shelter. 

It’s true that one building will house the domestic violence survivors that we serve, and for the first time in Haven’s history, the pets that are part of many survivors’ families. This building will eventually quadruple our current capacity to shelter survivors. Bozeman is growing by 3 percent or more every year. We’re looking forward to being able to meet the increased needs that come with more people in the Gallatin Valley. 

But the Barnard Center, as the new complex will be named, will be not only a shelter, but also a home for our work in the community and a place that reflects the difference we’re trying to make in that community.  

For example: 

•  These buildings – with plenty of natural light, next to Bozeman Pond Park – were designed “with the aim of creating a space for safety, healing, and a community of solidarity,” said one of our designers at MASS Design Group in this video.

•  Our front door opens on our new community center, which we (and partners in the community) can use for classes and small events.    

• The Center demonstrates our commitment to ending the stigma around domestic violence. In the past, domestic violence was seen as a private issue, and one to be discussed in whispers, if it was discussed at all. That outlook isolated survivors and stigmatized them as “victims.” Our public-facing shelter will keep survivors safe while inviting our community to own the issue of domestic violence. 

We’re looking forward to moving into the Barnard Center this coming winter. In the meantime, we’ll keep you posted with more construction updates throughout the year. Thank you to everyone whose generosity helped make this new shelter possible!