RALEIGH, N.C. – Eight months after breaking ground, SECU Harbor House opened its doors to the Johnston County community with a dedication ceremony. Representatives from SECU Foundation, State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) and Harbor House joined state and local leaders for the Ribbon Cutting.
During the dedication, SECU Foundation Board member Shirley Bell spoke on behalf of Credit Union members who fund the Foundation, sharing their commitment to help the non-profit expand shelter services for victims and families of domestic violence and/or sexual assault. Harbor House received a $500,000 grant from SECU Foundation and a $600,000 interest-free loan in conjunction with the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency to help build the 10,000 square foot facility.
“The opening of SECU Harbor House is the realization of a decade-long dream to broaden and enhance Harbor’s capability to support victims of sexual assault and domestic violence and their families,” said Angie Lock, Harbor House Board Chair. “With its 28 bed shelter, victim support facilities, children’s play areas and administrative offices, SECU Harbor House will provide a safe place for victims to heal from abuse and begin the transition to healthy, self-sufficient lives.”
Bell commented, “SECU members, through their Foundation, continue to show their compassion and support for projects that reflect the Foundation’s mission and guiding philosophy of helping others. Harbor House shares those same values, and over the past 31 years, has made a tremendous impact in the lives of many families. The Foundation’s partnership with Harbor House is deepening the reach within Johnston County to help those in need overcome the devastating effects of abuse.”
Lock added, “The Harbor Board and staff are deeply grateful for the support of SECU members as we continue our fight against domestic violence and sexual assault in our community. This amazing haven would not exist without SECU Foundation’s generosity.”