RALEIGH COUNTY WV (WOAY) – The new Beckley Day Center opened on December 1, solving the need for resources to be provided at a central location.
Many entities and organizations serve the at-risk community under the umbrella of poverty, mental health, and recovery.
The center’s positive impact can already be felt.
“We offer an opportunity for other organizations under that umbrella to come and serve the community, collaborate, gain ideas, work on lasting impact, and truly make a difference,” said Chair and Community Advocate Amanda Hammons.”
According to Hammons, they welcome conversations about the center’s purpose, why it’s needed, and how it can keep not only its guests but also the community safe.
“These individuals that we’re serving in the at-risk community are not the problem, they’re having problems,” the community advocate said. “If we can locate what those problems are and create safety and opportunity for them, then we have fewer issues and more success.”
You are welcome to come as you are.
“No matter where you are in life, no matter what got you there, you are important (and) you matter,” said Hammons. “There is opportunity for you to change at any time. This is a nonjudgment zone.”
Listening to people’s stories and sharing his own, community advocate Burl Johnson offers faith-based encouragement.
“Because I found hope through Jesus or God or a higher power, so to speak,” said Johnson, who feels a higher power or whatever it may be can give people more hope. “Because there’s a lot of negativity out here.”
People will find compassion, understanding, and acceptance at the Beckley Day Center.
“Take them out of that survival mode they might be existing in and allow them to be human again and become part of the community they live in,” said Hammons.
Having support can go a long way for individuals.
“Just knowing they’re loved and there are better days ahead is the best medicine, I believe, for healing,” Johnson said.
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Beckley Day Center
208 Main Street Sublevel, Beckley (red awning)
