Arol Buntzman, Karen Sutton, Jen Grossman and Linda Oberhaus cut the ribbon.

The Shelter for Abused Women & Children Hosts Ribbon Cutting for New Transitional Living Housing in Immokalee

Immokalee, FL — The Shelter for Abused Women & Children celebrated a significant milestone on Nov. 4 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new 16-unit Transitional Living Apartments in Immokalee. This project expands The Shelter’s mission of protecting, supporting, and empowering survivors of domestic violence throughout Collier County.

The Transitional Living Program provides safe, affordable housing and comprehensive support services for survivors and their children as they rebuild their lives and move toward long-term independence. The program bridges the gap between emergency shelter and permanent housing, offering residents the time, resources, and stability they need to heal and thrive.

Participants in the program have access to financial literacy training, counseling, life-skills workshops, employment assistance, and children’s programming all designed to foster empowerment and self-sufficiency.

“The opening of this new apartment complex represents more than just housing, it represents hope, stability, and a future free from violence,” said Linda Oberhaus, CEO of The Shelter for Abused Women & Children. “We are deeply grateful to our partners, donors, and community supporters who helped make this vision a reality. Together, we are creating pathways for survivors and their families to rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.”

This project was made possible through the collaboration of community partners and generous donors dedicated to supporting The Shelter’s mission. Their combined efforts reflect a shared commitment to ending domestic violence and strengthening the Immokalee community.

Since its founding in 1986, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children has provided lifesaving services to thousands of individuals across Collier County. With the addition of the Immokalee Transitional Living Program, The Shelter strengthens its continuum of care ensuring survivors have access to emergency, transitional, and long-term support as they work toward safety and independence.

For more information about the Transitional Living Program or to learn how you can support The Shelter’s mission, please visit www.naplesshelter.org.

About The Shelter for Abused Women & Children
The Shelter for Abused Women & Children leads the community to prevent, protect, and prevail over domestic and human trafficking through advocacy, empowerment, and social change. Each year, The Shelter provides lifesaving services, safe housing, and hope to hundreds of survivors and their children in Collier County. Learn more about The Shelter by visiting www.naplesshelter.org.

About The Shelter’s Transitional Living Program
The Shelter’s Transitional Living Program is a highly selective, empowerment-based opportunity for survivors of domestic violence who are ready to take the next steps toward long-term independence. For up to 24 months, participants live in safe, affordable transitional housing while working toward goals like financial stability, education, and permanent, violence-free housing. Those who are accepted into the program gain the structure, tools, and community they need to reclaim their future with strength and hope.