Spring Update from Thistle Farms Residential
Thistle Farms residential program, known by many as Magdalene, has been at the core of who we are and what we do for over 22 years.
We currently have the capacity to house 27 women survivors across 4 homes in our core program and an additional 6 women in a transitional living residence designed to give those who need it an additional year of support. While in the program, women can stay for up to two-years at no cost. Since its founding, Magdalene has given more than 300 survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction the time and space they need to heal. In addition, it has inspired 33 communities in 25 states to replicate its success. An additional 20 communities are in the formative development stages, with plans to open residences in the next two years.
What many do not realize is that our residential program has a waiting list of more than 100 names. Our desire has been to grow our capacity but we have been hesitant to grow the program until it could be partially funded through earned income streams. After all, we want to grow something that is sustainable. After the successful turnaround of our social enterprise, we are excited to announce that we will be expanding Thistle Farms Residential by 10 to 12 new beds within the next year.
In February, Thistle Farms purchased a lot located within walking distance of 3 other homes that we own and plans to open a new home that will feature 8 bedrooms, space for an outpatient treatment program, and private offices for case managers. Current residents will play an active role in shaping the homes' features to ensure that the design is both trauma-informed and incredibly welcoming. In addition, we will convert a small home that currently houses our residential management team back to a residence that will house 3 more women.
If you would like more information on how you can help create this beautiful new opportunity, please contact our Director of Development, Tara Hamilton at tara.hamilton@thistlefarms.org
#LoveHeals
