The Haven Pays off Mortgage, Repair Work Needed
The Haven, an after-school space for children, has achieved its goal of paying off the mortgage for its downtown Barnesville building.
In 2013, the nonprofit organization, Community Christian Mission that dates to 2002, purchased the former Green Cottage Restaurant building at 163 E. Main Street. With the purchase came a $49,500 mortgage.
At the pumpkin festival last fall, a poster at the center noted $9,000 remained on the note. “It showed that we had a goal to reach, and how close we were to reaching our goal and getting the building paid off,” said center founder and treasurer, Ed Eberhart
An early payoff was made possible by a “generous donation,” Eberhart said. The Sinclair Foundation, founded by Belmont County natives Donn and Kristin Wright Sinclair, donated several thousand dollars over the winter to cover the remaining balance.
“We were elated to no longer have the burden of a mortgage, because that will free us up financially to provide more services and better opportunities for the kids we serve,” Eberhart said.
Since its founding, The Haven has been completely supported by donations from local church congregations, civic organizations and individuals.
However, less than a month after the final payment was made, a March 13 windstorm shattered an upstairs window at The Haven, scattering glass across Main Street. Eberhart, his wife Heather and chairman Alex Davidson cleaned up the mess that night. A member of their congregation, First Christian Church, boarded up the window. Read the Barnesville Area News account here.
The group is obtaining estimates to replace the second story windows and repair the surrounding wood trim. The building’s front facade will also be repainted. Eberhart said the trustees may need a loan or line of credit to cover the work if donations are not received from the community.
In addition to building maintenance, The Haven has ongoing expenses including part-time director Jean Cooper’s salary, monthly utilities and taxes. Barnesville Area News published a profile on Cooper last fall. Read it here.
“From the beginning we have desired for The Haven to be a safe place for kids after school, a place where they can get help with their schoolwork and take part in recreational opportunities,” Eberhart said. “I know that it has blessed many families who might not have other options for after school childcare”.
“For the kids themselves, it provides a safe place to have fun and to learn about God.”
Those who wish to help may send donations to Community Christian Mission, P.O. Box 219, Barnesville, OH 43713. As a member of the Barnesville Community Foundation, a 501c3 organization, checks should be made to the foundation with a notation it is for “The Haven”.
Additional information may be obtained from Eberhart by calling 740-310-4138.
Children attend The Haven after school where they learn about Jesus and have a safe space for activities. ©Barnesville Area News Company Photo.
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