As 2020 draws to a close, it’s hard to not reflect on everything that happened this year and how it impacted our work. Perhaps the easiest way to describe it is… HARD!
Deemed an essential agency during the COVID-19 pandemic and Safer at Home orders, we had to constantly adapt our programming to meet the new and changing needs of survivors during the pandemic. We knew straight away that violence, abuse, torture, and rape wouldn’t stop because of a pandemic. These are atrocities that will outlive any pandemic…and therefore so will The Women’s Center.
As always, we stayed true to our mission because we were committed to being there for all victims of domestic or sexual violence. Whether they were adults, already isolated by their abuser who found themselves literally trapped under the careful, controlling watchful eye of their abuser, or children trapped with the person who was physically or sexually abusing them.
We are proud to share that we were able to make sure everyone who needed us did not feel alone or abandoned by us during this difficult time. Thanks to our incredible Advocates who made our services more accessible to those in isolation through tele-advocacy, our Wednesday Workshop Podcasts, and new virtual resources.
2020 has proven that it is absolutely necessary that The Women’s Center continues to be available and accessible in whatever ways our clients need us to be. This dangerous and life-threatening year has shown that domestic and sexual violence continue to be prevalent crimes in our community. And with your help, all the victims who need us today and tomorrow will have access to 24/7 services.
As we look into 2021, we anticipate an increase in demand for our services and it will be just as critical to continue supporting survivors and raising awareness so everyone who needs us knows we are here and open to all.
Our vision of more futures free from violence is only possible through your support of our mission, which allows us to keep our doors open and programs free for all victims of domestic and sexual violence. If you have not already done so, please consider making a donation today so safety, shelter, and support are always available.