Can survivor Ayah count on your support today?

 In Events, News

Domestic violence is a part of a systemic pattern of power and control and unfortunately, this systemic pattern can create barriers for victims like Ayah, who experienced economic insecurity, housing inaccessibility, and legal challenges. The name of the client has been changed to protect her confidentiality, but the facts and situation are absolutely true and sadly not out of the ordinary.

Ayah is a 64-year-old woman who was arrested for defending herself during a domestic altercation with her husband. Her husband was not arrested even though her body was covered with bruises. When Ayah was released from jail she found herself homeless. Ayah was in need of a safe and dependable resource during her most vulnerable time. Fortunately, Ayah was referred to the Domestic Violence Resource Center. She was provided secure, confidential emergency shelter for up to 90 days. In addition, she was provided with free, financial coaching that helped her to reach her goals to find employment, work through her legal issues, and find long-term low-income housing.

Unfortunately, domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children in the U.S. Survivors like Ayah need more than just a safe place to go, they also need access to free resources to help them rebuild their lives because most victim survivors leave violent environments with only the clothes on their backs.

The Domestic Violence Resource Center is literally a center for essential resources that help victim survivors who leave violent environments with nothing but their hope for safe and dignified futures. Community contributions help sustain our ability to offer free services to the many individuals/families who seek support each year. Please consider making a monetary donation to help our inspirational team serve those in need. Your contributions may help to purchase the following services that our clients need on a daily basis. 

Donate Today!

Meals 
Every client receives a hot meal and/or a snack prior to the shelter process because in most instances they arrive at our facility without having eaten for some time. In addition, we offer bags of assorted groceries to nonresidential clients as well. We accept nonperishable (and non-expired) food donations like bottled juice and water, soup, microwavable meals, crackers, chips, protein bars, macaroni and cheese, etc. Donations can be made Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at our administrative facility, 1735 Vassar St. Reno, NV 89502.

Transportation
Often transportation is a barrier for clients who need to get to work, doctor’s appointments, get children to school, etc. Transportation vouchers are provided to all shelter residents upon arrival. Individuals receive either a $20.00 gas voucher or a 7-day RTC Pass valued at $14.50. In addition, emergency taxi and other rideshare assistance are available to all clients as funding is available.

Wellness activities
The wellness fund provides residential clients and their children the opportunity to participate in activities that bring a sense of normalcy to their lives. Your support will sustain funding which may provide clients with funds for outings to the movies, events and outdoor activities that reintroduce victims to a life, free from violence.

Childcare
There is an extreme lack of access to affordable childcare within the community. Families have expressed that one of their greatest needs is for safe and affordable childcare. More than half of the families the organization serves live below the poverty line, offering childcare assistance helps free up additional income that families can spend on other needs.

P.S. Save the date!
We are pleased to invite you to a very special evening at the Reno Little Theater on Thursday, October 21 at 5:30 p.m.

The evening will feature Donna Thomas, creator and star of the autobiographical work, From Southern Belle to Mrs. Cartel. Domestic violence has been a common theme in Donna’s life, she speaks passionately (with a side of humor!) about her experiences, the importance of perseverance, and how she overcame extreme circumstances. Please look for a formal invitation in the coming week.

Register Today!

Thank you for your interest and support,

Denise Yoxsimer
Executive Director

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