Rep. Sykes Announces $500,000 To Support Transitional Housing for Victims of Domestic Violence
AKRON, OH – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women awarded $500,000 to Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center to support transitional housing initiatives for survivors of domestic violence in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District.
“I’m proud to secure this funding, which will help survivors of domestic violence not only find permanent housing, but will equip them with the resources and knowledge they need to be successful. Too often, victims of domestic violence do not leave a dangerous situation because they may not have anywhere to go, or they may not have the tools to live on their own. This funding seeks to change that, and I will continue fighting to bring funding back to Ohio’s 13th Congressional District for such programs,” said Rep. Sykes.
“The Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center is proud to announce the launch of our Empowering Paths Housing Assistance and Employment Solutions program, thanks to this generous grant. This initiative will provide critical transitional housing assistance and comprehensive employment counseling for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in Summit and Medina counties. In partnership with Goodwill Industries, we aim to empower survivors on their path to independence, offering trauma-informed support services that foster long-term stability. Together, we are committed to creating a future where survivors not only heal but thrive,” said Teresa Stafford, CEO of Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center.
Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center will provide 10 scattered site residences for 10 survivors and their families through private landlord housing units. The Battered Women’s Shelter of Summit and Medina County will collaborate with its two partners, The Goodwill Industries of Akron, Ohio, Inc, and Rape Crisis Center of Medina and Summit Counites, to provide a holistic, victim-centered, and multidisciplinary approach to transitional housing needs in the community.
This new project will use funds to provide both housing and supportive services to move survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking who are homeless or in need of housing assistance to permanent housing. The project will assist clients for an anticipated minimum of six months and a maximum length of 24 months.
The grant activities will be tailored to meet the needs of the survivors. The range of optional support services includes rental and utility assistance, case management, safety planning, employment counseling, legal services, advocacy, mental health services, outpatient health services, outreach services, and housing advocacy. The project will also hire one additional staff member to implement the program and provide follow-up services for at least six months once a survivor secures permanent housing.