I received an invitation to an event on Facebook a couple of days ago. This is not an unusual circumstance as I get invitations all the time, usually to my son's punk shows in the basement of his house or at a similar venue. While I do enjoy seeing him drum and hordes of young people sweat, I frequently turn down these invites. It's tough being the oldest, yet freshest smelling attendee.
No, this event is different and ongoing. It's an event that must be attended. And it has nothing to do with autism, so if that's why you are here and reading, I apologize.
In short, our local Women's Shelter is in danger of closing its doors due to lack of funding. It's not a homeless shelter, per se. Rather, it is a safe haven for victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse and their children. In these unbelievably already trying times, women may soon have no where to go, no one to talk to in the most difficult time of their life--a time that they are trying to break free and start anew.
It's no mystery as to why this is happening. State funding has been cut and employees have been laid off. Those who remain have no clear idea of when or even if they will be paid, yet they stay. That is dedication. That is caring and concern.
The shelter needs help, and I intend to give it in anyway I can. I am free in the daytime and hope to be able to volunteer in some capacity, whether it is manning a phone line or helping to raise much needed funds or organizing other volunteers. At the very least, a monetary donation will help, no matter how small.
I feel very fortunate in my life. I am healthy and happy, as is my family. I don't fear for my safety in my little world. But for scores of women, fear is a reality they cannot escape without help. Please, if there is anything you can do, monetarily or otherwise, pitch in. Without help, the shelter will be closed and women will really have nowhere to turn. If you cannot help monetarily and live far from here, please contact your local women's shelter to volunteer in some way or donate clothing, toys, furniture--whatever they may need. This is everyone's concern and if it isn't, it really should be.
Thanks for reading. Please visit A Woman's Fund for information on how you can help.
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I can't believe they are going to let A Woman's Place die! They do GOOD work in our community and have for many years. This is literally the ONLY place in our town where a woman can go (and take kids if she has them) where there is NO WAY an abusive man can get to them.
ReplyDeleteI know we are going to find out what we can do for them ASAP!