From left to right, Pat Carr of the Jamestown Breast Cancer Support Group, Diane Guzman,shelter coordinator, and Diane Hewitt-Johnson, Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. CEO, are pictured at the shelter’s front door, located at 303 Lafayette St. P-J photo by Christopher Blakeslee

The Hope Haven Women’s Shelter will host a special opening ceremony at 1:30 p.m. today at the Northwest Arena.

The shelter recently received a $3,000 grant from the Jamestown Breast Cancer Support Group to help Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. launch the new 18-bed shelter located at 303 Lafayette St. The facility includes 12 independent apartments designed to provide residents with a sense of autonomy. Additionally, the shelter offers a large standard room, laundry facilities, and dedicated office space for supportive services, aimed at assisting residents during their stay.

Pat Carr presented a check for $3,000 on behalf of her organization, the Breast Cancer Support Group.

“This is a wonderful donation,” said Diane Guzman, the shelter coordinator.

Carr said that anyone interested in supporting the Breast Cancer group should contact her at 716-490-4545.

The women’s shelter is seeking donations of personal hygiene items, towels, washcloths, coffee creamer, laundry soap, and cleaning supplies, according to Guzman.

Hope Haven Women’s Center is designed to meet the unique needs of women facing homelessness, offering a variety of services, including emergency shelter, case management, housing assistance, and access to community resources.

“We uphold the principles of dignity and respect for all individuals who seek our services. This facility serves as a secure environment for women striving to regain stability while receiving essential support services, all aimed at achieving permanent housing,” said Diane Hewitt-Johnson, COI CEO.

The renovation at 303 Lafayette Street started in March and completed in December 2024. The shelter has been open since early April – though the general public can get a look at the work and learn more today.

After the ceremony, we will move to our main building for tours and an open house,” Hewitt-Johnson said.

For more information, visit chautauquaopportunities.com.