Collier Community Foundation Awards Multiple Grants to Support Survivors at The Shelter for Abused Women & Children

The Shelter for Abused Women & Children is proud to announce the receipt of multiple grants from the Collier Community Foundation, providing critical support to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking and strengthening essential services for families in crisis.

Through a combination of Wish List funding and targeted program grants, Collier Community Foundation has awarded more than $52,500 to support emergency shelter services, childcare and afterschool programming, rental assistance, and food security for Shelter participants.

Assistance for Shelter Residents Experiencing Domestic Violence
Collier Community Foundation granted a Wish List item and provided a $7,500 grant to aid participants at The Shelter who have experienced domestic violence. These funds will support emergency shelter operations by providing vital services such as safety planning, advocacy, food, clothing, and transportation. This comprehensive support network ensures survivors, and their families have access to immediate care and resources during times of crisis.

Afterschool and Childcare Services for Victims of Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking
Collier Community Foundation awarded two grants totaling $25,000 ($20,000 and $5,000) to support The Shelter’s Afterschool and Childcare Program. Funding will be used to cover enriching children’s activities including field trips, play-based learning, and arts and crafts as well as a portion of the salary, taxes, and benefits for The Shelter’s Childcare Advocates. These services provide children with a safe space to heal, grow, and experience moments of normalcy while receiving trauma-informed care from dedicated professionals.

Rental Assistance for Victims of Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking
A $10,000 grant from Collier Community Foundation will provide rental assistance to participant families at The Shelter. Funds will be distributed directly to landlords or mortgage companies on behalf of eligible families, helping at least three households secure or maintain permanent housing. In addition to financial assistance, families will receive or be connected to workshops and resources focused on financial safety planning, goal setting, financial literacy, and long-term stability supporting both immediate safety and lasting independence.

Food for Emergency Shelter Pantries
Collier Community Foundation also provided a $10,000 Wish List grant to support food access in The Shelter’s Emergency Shelter pantries. These funds will be used to purchase essential pantry items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, meats, and dairy products, ensuring families in crisis have access to nutritious meals during their stay.

“The generosity of the Collier Community Foundation allows us to meet survivors where they are and provide comprehensive, life-changing support,” said CEO of The Shelter Linda Oberhaus. “These grants directly impact the safety, stability, and healing of the victims we serve.”

The Shelter for Abused Women & Children extends its sincere gratitude to Collier Community Foundation for its continued partnership and commitment to creating a safer, stronger community for all.