Local Giving Circle Helps Survivors Escape Domestic Violence

On May 26th, 2011, ywca clark county’s SafeChoice Program was awarded $5,000 from the Nonprofit Network Giving Circle to fund the Transportation for Survivors Escaping Domestic Violence project. This grant will help approximately 300 residents of the SafeChoice shelter meet urgent transportation needs such as getting to or from emergency rooms and urgent care clinics as well as searching for permanent housing, applying for jobs, taking children to school/daycare, and meeting other basic needs.

When survivors of domestic violence flee their abuser, they are often forced to leave family, friends, and careers thus rendering them homeless and vulnerable. Nearly 90% of shelter residents are considered low-income and of those living in the shelter:

• 35% need cab fare to visit emergency rooms/hospitals or urgent care clinics because of injuries incurred through domestic violence.
• Only 25% own a car, while 75% rely on public transportation.

Domestic violence is a major cause of homelessness for women and children, however with support from the Nonprofit Network Giving Circle, we can help survivors transition to safe, stable living.