February 2010
Soroptimist Aids Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program of Jefferson County

Soroptimist International of Port Townsend-East Jefferson County presented nearly $1000 worth of bedding and linens to the Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program of Jefferson County on Thursday, February 5. The presentation was made at DVSA's new Dove House facility, in Port Townsend.

The building's first floor has space for the crisis line workers, legal advocacy, individual counseling, support groups, parenting classes, administration, and other programs. Upstairs, a one-bedroom unit, two two-bedroom units, and one three-bedroom unit will house families needing support during their transitions. They will be able to stay for up to two years, pay below-market rent, benefit from comprehensive onsite supportive services, and receive referrals to other community service providers. The facility recently celebrated its grand opening.

The first floor staff offices are now fully occupied and interviews for prospective occupants of the apartments begin next week. The four-unit transitional home, with space for 16 adults and children who are seeking refuge from violence, is on the second floor. The Soroptimist donation provides much-needed linens for the otherwise fully-furnished apartments.

"We have supported DVSA many times in the past few years with various monetary donations," said SIPT president Joy McFadden. "When we asked how Soroptimists could help with the new facility, they suggested bedding and linens. Club Treasurer Karen Bednarski had the fun of shopping for what turned out to fill a full pickup truck."

The Dove House will serve as transitional housing between the emergency shelter in Port Townsend -- which has a 90-day limit for residents -- and a more permanent housing solution in the area.

Dove House will allow those in need to stay for up to two years in a safe, affordable housing complex. It also serves as a location for individual and group counseling and support, legal advocacy, vocational and educational mentoring and scholarships, budgeting and financial management workshops, and case management to help them find permanent housing.

The mission of Soroptimist is to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world. "This donation fulfills our mission perfectly," said McFadden.

Anyone interested in joining Soroptimist of East Jefferson County and assisting in other worthwhile projects undertaken by the organization are encouraged to attend a meeting at noon on the first, second or third Thursday of each month at Discovery View Apartments, 1051 Hancock Street, Port Townsend.