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Women’s Advocates (WA) was founded in 1974 as the first domestic violence shelter in the nation. Our mission is to walk with victim-survivors and our community to break the cycle of domestic violence (DV). At WA, victim-survivors can access the following supports along their healing journey:
Crisis Response and Emergency Shelter: Through WA’s 24/7 hotline, callers connect with trained advocates to receive shelter referrals and navigate crises. Our emergency shelter is a warm refuge where single adults and families escaping DV can find respite, community, and the services they need to rebuild their lives. Last year, 229 people stayed at WA’s emergency shelter and 755 people called our crisis line.
Housing Stability: The biggest challenge facing victim-survivors is securing a permanent, affordable, safe place to live. WA's Housing Stability program supports families in obtaining housing, sustaining safety, and finding community as they transition from homelessness. Victim-survivors participating in WA’s Housing Stability program receive up to one year of long term financial support for rent and emergency needs, and up to two years of ongoing advocacy and mental health support.
Community-Centered Services: WA’s Outreach team empowers the community to stand with victim-survivors and stand up to DV through free trainings and support groups. Last year, 2,225 people attended our trainings. WA is committed to walking with victim-survivors of all backgrounds through Pop-Up Advocacy, a weekly clinic offering safety planning, DV education, and other advocacy services at the Rondo Community Outreach Library and the St. Paul Opportunity Center. 2,615 people found support through Pop-Up Advocacy in 2023.
Survivor Advisory Council: Survivor voice guides WA at every level. Every victim-survivor who gets help from WA is invited to join our Survivor Advisory Council, which meets monthly with WA’s Executive Director and Development Team to discuss improvements to services and move the organization forward. Members are compensated up to $900 per year for their time and expertise. The Survivor Advisory Council gives victim-survivors the chance to reclaim their power and become a driving voice for change.