As Christmas approaches, local businesses around Searcy are hosting holiday-related events for Harding students and faculty to attend. Jacob’s Place Homeless Mission will hold its first Open House on Dec. 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. at their location on 301 E Market Ave.
Jacob’s Place provides temporary housing for families with children in White County. The mission empowers the homeless by providing financial, spiritual, emotional and job counseling.
Harding alumna Roxanne Moaveni, a case manager at Jacob’s Place, said the service projects she participated in during her time at Harding were eye opening for her and made her want to work somewhere like Jacob’s Place. Moaveni said she is excited for the event and the role that she will play.
“My role will be to make others aware of our presence in the community,” Moaveni said. “To put a face to our organization, and let others know we are here if they need a place to stay.”
Program director Melanie Kiihnl said the Christmas season is the perfect time to have the open house. Many members of the community are curious about Jacob’s Place’s mission and want to learn more.
Jami Bever, Harding professor and member of the board of directors at Jacob’s Place, said families have already covered the house with Christmas decorations. The event will have cookies and hot drinks, caroling, and a visit with Santa.
“I am excited to invite the community into a home that’s for our community,” Bever said. “This open house is an opportunity to celebrate our community partnership and our residents. The open house is a chance to give thanks, while also educating our friends and neighbors about the ongoing need for support, prayers and resources. Jacob’s Place has been a community effort from the beginning and we want to keep the community involved and informed.”
Moaveni said the residents repeatedly mention the peace they gain from Jacob’s Place.
“We are a place of healing and not just a temporary room to rest your head,” Moaveni said. “Many past clients have returned and donated money or clothes, remembering what they once went through. We would love for you to come see our shelter first hand, and all the care we put into it.”
For more information about Jacob’s Place, visit jacobsplace.org.
