Rep. Sykes Celebrates Opening Of Domestic Violence Project, Inc.’s New Community Spaces For Survivors
CANTON, OH — This week, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) attended the grand opening of the Domestic Violence Project, Inc. (DVPI)’s newly renovated Founding Mothers’ Room and Community Space, which will offer resources to survivors of domestic violence in Stark County.
The new Founding Mothers’ Room is a trauma-informed space offering more organized spaces for clothing and other personal care supplies. The second, new Community Space creates an area dedicated for peer support groups.
“Every day, the Domestic Violence Project, Inc. creates a safe, compassionate place for survivors of domestic violence to turn to when they need help. The newly renovated Founding Mothers’ Room and Community Space will empower survivors by giving them the resources and tools they need to rebuild their lives after leaving unsafe relationships,” said Rep. Sykes. “I’m proud to support the ongoing work of local community organizations like DVPI by introducing the Safer Homes and Families Act to better protect survivors, hold abusers accountable, and ultimately, save lives. Our communities are stronger when we work together to ensure everyone can live safely and securely.”
“We are grateful to Lowe's Hometowns for allowing us the opportunity to renovate these rooms into more trauma-informed spaces. It is our mission to provide safety, hope, and healing to survivors of domestic violence and their families. With Representative Sykes’ ongoing support, we are removing barriers and increasing survivor safety each day,” said Julie Donant, CEO of Domestic Violence Project, Inc.
This project was made possible after DVPI was one of just 100 organizations across the country to be awarded a Lowe’s Hometown Grant. The Lowe’s Hometown program is a five-year, $100 million commitment to rebuild and revitalize community spaces nationwide.
Rep. Sykes is a longtime advocate for domestic violence survivors. Last week, she introduced the Safer Homes and Families Act, a comprehensive legislative package consisting of four bills which would protect families from domestic violence by:
- Banning the use of electronic devices to track people without their consent;
- Expanding access to Social Security spousal benefits for individuals who divorce due to domestic abuse;
- Training healthcare providers to better identify and treat individuals who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or dating violence; and
- Allowing individuals who are experiencing dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault to break their lease without adverse costs.