They have been overwhelmingly supportive and interested in searching for solutions and commonalities, participating in several meetings between the leaders of the nonprofits and themselves in the weeks leading up to the Trinity Church community meeting.
Some say The Steady Collective, Firestorm Books and Coffee, Kairos West Community Center and 12 Baskets Café have reduced the area’s safety by offering services to drug users and homeless clients. The Asheville Police Department has claimed that the number of complaints filed in the neighborhood — including drug use, trespassing and syringes discarded on a nearby playground — have risen dramatically in recent months.
The inaugural Cider, Wine and Dine Weekend spotlights and celebrates Henderson County’s agritourism industry. Also: UpCountry Brewing continues its Pint Night series; Pisgah Coffee Roasters opens; Great Harvest Bread Company partners with MetroWines for an evening workshop; and Corner Kitchen hosts beer pairing dinner.
Restoring the Dream project launched in January of this year. The open studio offers free art classes to members of the community. Like its founder, Joe Rob, many who attend have lived or currently live on the street.
