The Circle recently moved from 105 E. Stuart Avenue to 333 Lime Avenue! We are still in Lake Wales, approximately 1.5 miles from our old facility. This move was taken in faith. We have been tasked with raising $1.1 million dollars in 11 months to complete the purchase of this building and property. We are asking our community members to come alongside us and help raise these funds by giving to our GoFundMe, assisting with fundraising events, and keeping us in prayer for this monumental task.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
The "Proclaiming Our Potential" (P.O.P.) Day Program has been blessed with exponential growth between 2020 and 2023. We currently welcome 31 students to our P.O.P. Program. With the growth rate of Polk County being the 7th highest in the nation, and projected to double over the next few years, the Circle can expect to see more applicants and enrollments. The increased number of students set our plans for the future into motion.
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at a higher risk for housing insecurity because of their disproportionate dependence on others to get daily necessities. When caregivers can no longer provide because of age, incapacitation, or death, it places the IDD person at the mercy of circumstance. The number of chronically homeless people with disabilities is on the rise. Social Security typically provides $1,200.00 per month. The average monthly rent for a 1- bedroom apartment has increased 22% since 2022 at $1,600.00. Those who don't end up homeless are either placed in nursing homes (many between 25-50 years old) or institutions that simply provide food and a bed.
The Circle wants to provide an alternative for our IDD community and set the standard for programs across the country. The purchase of the new building and property provides the land needed to begin our Friends Village Supported Living and Respite Housing. Each duplex will be built with details to enhance everyday life for the residents and occupy no more than 2 residents per home. Residents will have the option to live their life out in their homes without fear of eviction. Each resident will continue building on skill development and enjoy life-enhancing activities through our P.O.P. Program. Our residents require some assistance with maintaining their daily activities and routines so they will have 24/7 access to a supported living supervisor. Overworked parents can utilize our respite house for their disabled child so they can rest and recoup before resuming constant care of their child.
We are working toward meeting a dire need in our county for unique and affordable housing that will create a stronger, more inclusive community.
You can be a part of the legacy and help us reach the first step of this goal, which is purchasing this new facility and property. Will you be a friend to the Circle?
- Crystal Higbee, President/CEO
