SAVANNAH, Ga. — Hope Haven received a $15,000 donation from the Critz Family
Foundation Inc., marking a significant milestone for the organization’s mission to support
families living with cognitive changes, such as early to mid-stage dementia.
“Savannah thrives when we invest in organizations that strengthen families and improve quality
of life. Hope Haven is doing meaningful work, and we’re proud to help it grow,” said Dale Critz
Jr., president of the Critz Family Foundation.
Launched in February 2025, Hope Haven provides dementia support with heart through
twice-weekly gatherings that create moments of joy, connection, and purpose for members living
with cognitive changes, while offering caregivers four hours of respite. Each day features
uplifting activities, including music, art, brain games, exercise, shared meals, and positive
devotions.
Since opening, Hope Haven has served 10 families and provided 1,350 hours of caregiver
respite. The program maintains a 1:2 volunteer-to-member ratio and has the capacity to serve up
to 15 families each day while preserving its high level of personalized care.
“The Critz family has been a pillar of support for our community for years, and their generosity
will strengthen our ability to lovingly serve those living with dementia and the caregivers who
support them,” said Cathy Baxter, director of Hope Haven. “It has been incredible to see so many
people come together, donating their time and resources to make a real difference for local
families.”
In addition to its member programs, the ministry hosts free monthly caregiver support groups
and quarterly dementia education events, fostering a compassionate community for families
navigating these challenges.
Community members interested in supporting Hope Haven’s mission can donate at
https://savannahrespite.com/donate.
Photo Caption: Critz Family Foundation President Dale Critz Jr. presents a $15,000 matching donation
check to Hope Haven Director Cathy Baxter at Hope Haven in downtown Savannah, Ga.
ABOUT HOPE HAVEN
Hope Haven is a faith-based day respite ministry located in downtown Savannah at St. John’s
Church, Cranmer Hall, 27 West Charlton Street. Dedicated to providing dementia support with
heart, Hope Haven serves individuals living with dementia or other cognitive challenges through
a unique “social club” experience where there is no distinction made between members and
volunteers. For four hours they engage together in games, music, art, exercise, shared meals, and
service projects that enrich mind, body, and spirit while giving caregivers much-needed rest.
Hope Haven is supported by trained volunteers and guided by the principles of compassion,
dignity, and community. Prospective members must be medically stable, capable of socializing in
a group setting, ambulatory (with or without assistive devices), and able to manage eating and
toileting needs independently. A one-time $100 registration fee applies, with program costs of
$205 per month for one day a week or $410 per month for two days a week. Hope Haven
operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 47 weeks per year. Scholarships are available. To learn
more, visit www.savannahrespite.com or call 912‐231‐7310.
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For media inquiries, contact Heather Harvey: SavannahRespiteNews@Gmail.com