If you purchased one of our 2017 Charleston flowerbox calendars or prints this season, you might have noticed that a portion of the proceeds went to an organization called One80 Place, based right here in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. It is so easy to notice all the beauty in a city like ours (which Emily has depicted so well in these products!), but if you look a little closer, it’s impossible to miss the need that exists here as well. While capturing the charm of Charleston’s homes, we knew that there were many people in our city still struggling to meet basic needs, such as food and shelter. So, rather than just noticing the need, we wanted to do something to help. That’s why we decided to partner with One80 Place.

A few weeks ago, Emily and I were fortunate enough to tour One80 Place’s downtown campus. It’s safe to say we were blown away – the facility is so much more than just a homeless shelter, as one might think. The vision behind the nonprofit organization is not just to provide individuals and families with beds for a night, but rather, equip them with the tools to get back on their feet. This includes everything from legal help, job training, counseling, education opportunities and access to medical treatment, just to name a few of the incredible services offered on site. The end goal, we learned, is to end homelessness in Charleston all together. While this may seem like a lofty aspiration, after witnessing first hand all that One80 place is doing for this community, I believe wholeheartedly that a real, tangible difference is being made.

Our tour was lead by Vice President of Operations John Masters, one of many passionate team members, whose enthusiasm and heart for the project were nothing short of contagious. He walked us through the entire campus (which is still growing and expanding to include more space for housing and childcare, for example), comprised of a handful of building devoted to various aspects of the mission. While it provides shelter to roughly 160 people on a nightly basis, One80 place also houses a complete health care facility, community kitchen, education and professional training center, as well an entire wing devoted to serving the specific needs of veterans.

We left One80 Place that day feeling completely inspired – the measures being taken by the staff, volunteers, and supporters of the shelter are doing more to change the lives of people in the community than I can express. We at Texture Design Co. are beyond humbled to play even the smallest role in the amazing work being done there! A portion of the proceeds from our flowerbox prints and calendars will continue to go towards this organization, but if you want to learn more about One80 Place or find out how to get involved, click here.

-Abby