 Because of the appeal of a group of black women that included Prudence Jones, Lethia Fleming, Marie Taylor Perkins; Mrs. Laura Spellman Rockefeller made a financial contribution, which helped to enable the purchase of the first home.In January 1895 a board of managers composed of women and a male treasurer was named for the proposed home.By 1896, enough funds were raised and a house was purchased for $2,000 with barely any necessities.