You can provide hope for a better tomorrow.
Through endless challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic such as increased violence at home, health concerns, job loss, and food insecurity, thousands of survivors have vowed to keep going for the sake of their families and the safety of their children. And together with the dedication of WC&S staff members and your incredible support, we are meeting survivors’ basic needs as well as their needs related to safety, emotional, and mental health in new and expanded ways.
To meet the changing needs of survivors, we have:
- Added text and online chat features to our 24-Hour Hotline to support those experiencing IPV during stay-at-home orders;
- Distributed hundreds of care packages and gift cards to clients experiencing financial hardship;
- Transitioned support groups and other programming to virtual formats so that anyone can connect to support wherever they are;
- Broadened our outreach efforts by distributing postcards in local grocery stores;
- Enhanced our cleaning and sanitization procedures in the Emergency Shelter; and much more.
Over the past nine months, many survivors of domestic violence have been trapped at home with their abusers, making it even more difficult to reach out for help. While their experiences vary greatly, what they have in common is that each brave step is part of a healing journey forward.
"The capability to connect virtually with my support group has been a lifeline to keep me from feeling alone. It has helped me to continue moving forward even though in some ways because of the world situation, I am also moving backwards. Connecting with my group gives me hope."
Whether working with a WC&S Advocate to create a safety plan or exploring employment or educational opportunities while staying in the Emergency Shelter, each survivor forges their own path forward. It certainly isn’t easy, but thousands of survivors have found hope in what has been a time of despair and uncertainty.
Your generous gift helps them in their journeys forward. Thank you for helping survivors to find light among the chaos.