Nestled in the heart of Denver, Colorado, stands the historic Women’s Welfare Department (WWD) building, a charming edifice dating back to 1891. This iconic structure is home to four units, with the ground floor dedicated to the jagrtii and the residence of the revered didis. The remaining three units, situated on the first and second floors, serve as sanctuaries for economically disadvantaged women, with or without children, providing them with safe housing.
Last summer, Avtk. Ananda Aparajiita Ac. and Avtk. Ananda Kalyanmitra Ac. embarked on an ambitious renovation project to revitalize a long-unused office and rental space within the building. Their goal was to create a warm and welcoming home for those in need. The extensive renovation included replacing the worn-out carpets that covered 80% of the apartment and installing new linoleum flooring in the kitchen and bathroom. To enhance privacy, a dividing wall with a door was constructed, transforming the space into a more functional living area.
The project also involved repairing sections of the walls damaged by water and refreshing the bathroom with a modern sink unit, cabinet, and mirror. A fresh coat of paint throughout the flat added the finishing touch to this comprehensive makeover. Additionally, gaps between the brick walls were filled to eliminate cold drafts, and new kitchen cabinets were installed to provide ample storage.
Though the renovation took over a month to complete, the meticulous attention to detail has created a cozy, welcoming haven. The apartment is now home to a single mother and her four-year-old child, both of whom had faced significant hardship before finding this safe and supportive environment.