Each year, more than 50 families from Northeast Ohio come through WomenSafe’s shelter doors. WomenSafe is a non-profit domestic violence shelter and resource center in Chardon that provides free support to anyone experiencing violence in his or her home or dating relationship. WomenSafe responds to the needs of victims and provides education in the community aimed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence and making the community aware of what help is available.
Services available today include: emergency shelter, 24-hour support and crisis management hotline, individualized and group counseling, art therapy, court advocacy, peer support, aftercare, education and referrals. All services are provided for free regardless of economic income.
“WomenSafe relies on donations (both cash and in-kind) to support adults and children who are fleeing violence in their homes,” said Andrea Gutka, M.Ed., CHES, public relations coordinator, WomenSafe, Inc. “Our needs are constantly changing and are regularly posted on womensafe.org. We are always in need of paper products and hygiene items. If donors would like to contribute items not specifically referenced on our list, we would welcome their donation at the WomenSafe Resale Shoppe in Chesterland. All proceeds benefit the mission of WomenSafe.”
Current Needs List:
For the shelter: *paper towels, toilet paper, *38-gallon trash bags, *13-gallon trash bags, *kitchen cleaner, *new pillows, *hair brushes, *new women’s and children’s underwear, new socks, feminine hygiene products (tampons), diaper rash cream, washcloths, mop and bucket, sponges.
Art supplies: pencil sharpeners, sketchbooks and colored pencils.
Re-establishment assistance: twin mattresses and box spring, microwaves.
*indicates largest needs.
WomenSafe, Inc. is always in need of more volunteers to staff the hotline, provide clerical assistance, support clients, help plan fundraisers, maintain the shelter, organize donations and much more. The volunteer program is flexible — there are opportunities to volunteer from home, as a family and at the convenience of your individual schedule. Application forms can be found on the site. The next Volunteer Training Date is Tuesday, August 19 at 5 p.m.
WomenSafe can be reached at 440-286-7154, womensafe.org.
