Join us this month as we explore one client’s journey with NEWS. We’ll explore the various challenges she faced and the services and support NEWS provided to get her and her family into a violence-free home. Please note: as this is a real client story, the name of the client has been changed and small details have been altered to protect the client’s privacy.

Chapter 3: A Temporary Place to Call Home, the NEWS Shelter

One of Olivia’s most pressing concerns about moving into shelter was the need to sell her belongings, some of which included new bedroom sets purchased for her children after the devastation of the fires. But, she didn’t have enough income to afford a storage unit while staying at the NEWS Shelter. Our Housing Advocate successfully negotiated with a storage company to reduce the unit price by 50% for four months! That was enough to put Olivia’s heart at ease and allow her to peacefully move into the Shelter where she could look forward to finding her own place.

Over the course of her Shelter stay, Olivia worked with many NEWS advocates to establish childcare so she could work more hours and look for available units and housing options. Her NEWS Housing Advocate was also able to obtain a Section 8 Emergency Housing Voucher through the City of Napa, which secured her ability to afford a unit once they found one. While at the Shelter, Olivia experienced a homelike atmosphere where she and her children could relax. Advocates were available 24/7 for any needs and even provided food, toiletries, and a birthday cake for her son’s birthday.

This is the third of five chapters of Olivia’s story. Stay tuned next week to find out what happens after Shelter life.

If you are experiencing abuse or would just like some information, please call our help line, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

$5,000 Give!Guide Match Challenge Met!

We are off to a great start this giving season to meeting our annual fundraising goals thanks to YOU! Your donations were doubled in our Give!Guide campaign! And HUGE thanks to The Table for their generous donation to NEWS through the Give!Guide. Their donation tipped the scales to meet our match, and will provide food to our clients.