Grant supports victims of domestic violence seeking help through YWCA
A $1,500 grant from the Altrusa International Foundation will provide “Welcome Home Baskets” to victims of domestic violence who have left their homes and found support and new homes through the YWCA Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley scattered-site transitional housing program in Anderson County.
The International Foundation recently awarded the grant to Altrusa International of Oak Ridge.
The grant will purchase household necessities, such as toiletries and cleaning items, for the baskets. Also included will be age-appropriate books for each of the children in the home.
The Altrusa Club will provide volunteers and work in partnership with the YWCA to provide baskets for women and children entering the program.
“Often, victims of domestic violence do not have access to emergency items when fleeing their abusers and their homes,” said Maggie McNally, YWCA Director of Women’s Services in Anderson County.
“The baskets offer a nice gift that shows support for these families and will give them a head start in their new homes.”
The YWCA supports victims of domestic violence in court, in finding housing, and in learning life skills as they seek safety, stability and independence.
The YWCA started its scattered-site transitional housing program in Anderson County in October 2017, providing from six months to two years of housing assistance for victims and their families.
Altrusa volunteers have worked with the YWCA on other projects, and they recommended that the local Club apply for the Altrusa International Foundation grant as a way to show support for women and children who have fled domestic violence and their homes in Anderson County.
Altrusa International of Oak Ridge is a leadership, partnership and service organization of community members interested in improving the quality of life in the community. Awarding scholarships, supporting literacy projects, serving as a Partner in Education to the Oak Ridge Schools Preschool, and partnering with organizations including Girls Inc., CASA of the Tennessee Heartland, ADFAC and the YWCA are among the Club’s service activities. The Club is an affiliate of Altrusa International, Inc.