Each year, domestic violence and human trafficking shatter thousands of lives, reaching far beyond the victims. The impact of these unthinkable crimes affects all of us, because violence at home does not stop at the front door; it infects our workplaces, schools, social circles and places of worship. Every year in Collier County, these societal issues cost us tens of millions of dollars in medical care, social services, lost wages, and productivity.

We all know the devastating cost these crimes have on victims, but the financial cost to our community is also substantial. In 2023, costs associated with domestic violence alone, exceeded $30 million in law enforcement, medical care, social services, lost wages, and productivity.

In response, The Shelter’s $9 million budget provided more than $24 million in services that prevent, protect & prevail over domestic violence and human trafficking. That represents a 2.7x return on investment of donated funds. In addition to our two 60-bed emergency shelters and nine Transitional Living cottages, our outreach team provides support and services, as well as prevention and educational programs to stop violence before it even begins. There is much work yet to do and we remain profoundly grateful for your support.

Everyone’s help is needed to save lives, reduce community costs, and break the cycle of abuse for generations to come. Please give us a call, we look forward to the opportunity to share the many ways that you can have an impact.

Linda Oberhaus, CEO