The Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc. (Mirci) has officially begun construction on Millwood Place, a new transitional living home for unhoused young women in Columbia. This facility aims to provide safe, stable housing and support for female-identifying adolescents aged 17-22 who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness.
The need for such services is pressing, as the National Alliance to End Homelessness reports that 4.2 million young people experience homelessness each year in the U.S., with young women particularly vulnerable to violence and exploitation. In South Carolina, over 12,000 youth are estimated to face homelessness annually, and the lack of stable housing is a critical issue in Columbia.
Mirci CEO Julie Ann Avin emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing young women with a nurturing environment where they can heal, grow, and regain their independence. “Every young person deserves a safe place to call home and the chance to build a hopeful future,” Avin said, expressing gratitude to community partners who made this project possible.
Supported by organizations like United Way of the Midlands, Millwood Place will provide transitional housing and comprehensive support services for residents. Sara Fawcett, President and CEO of United Way of the Midlands, highlighted the importance of this project, stating, “Millwood Place will help young women avoid cycles of crisis and homelessness, creating opportunities for long-term success.”
The 10-bedroom facility will offer a trauma-informed environment where residents can focus on personal development, mental health, education, and employment. Mirci’s proven model has seen success since opening its first youth home for male-identifying adolescents in 2018, with 90% of program graduates securing employment and 80% moving to stable living situations.
Millwood Place will feature essential amenities like a common area, full kitchen, outdoor garden, and workspace, providing a supportive environment for residents to thrive.
For more information about Millwood Place or to get involved, contact mail@mirci.org.
