The website for Shelter From the Storm Inc. asks a powerful question: “Is someone hurting you?”
That question might sit with readers much longer than an average visit to a nonprofit’s site because one can’t help but ponder the answer coming from some individuals. To be sure, domestic violence is a serious issue. Fortunately, SFTS is deeply dedicated to helping those in need.
The nonprofit organization is the Coachella Valley’s only comprehensive domestic victim assistance service and shelter provider. The safety of those who seek assistance is a big priority. To that end, SFTS’s programs are uniquely designed to work with clients, helping them meet their needs and look ahead toward a brighter horizon.
A recent grant from Inland Empire Community Foundation through the Women’s Giving Fund will assist on that front.
“The grant will strongly help us support our clientele, which is predominantly women and women with children,” said Angelina Coe, executive director of SFTS. “Having funding allows us to continue offering support services, especially for victims of domestic violence with limited resources.
“This is going to be so powerful to them,” she said, “and it helps fulfil our mission and reach out to those who are in crisis.”
National and local statistics may certainly raise eyebrows. According to the SFTS website: Nearly 3 million women nationwide are physically abused by their husband or boyfriend each year; in California, an average of 124 women per year are murdered by an intimate partner, and of these, 45% were in the process of separating. About 76% of the cases involve a history of violence, and family, friends or co-workers were aware of the abuse; intimate partner violence is primarily a crime against women; and women are seven to 14 times more likely than men to report suffering severe physical assaults from an intimate partner.
“I know what it’s like to not feel empowered and not have a ‘voice’ in a relationship, and we believe in our survivors,” Coe said. “We want them to know that they are supported and the community cares.”
Looking ahead, Coe feels the grant adds fuel to the nonprofit’s ability to provide comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence in a unique trifecta: professionally, ethically and compassionately.
“We’ve been here for nearly four decades, and we’re still one of the best kept secrets in the valley and in the Inland Empire,” Coe said of the organization’s longevity. “I want people to know that we are here, and that we’re not going anywhere. As long as there is a need for survivors, we will offer assistance.”
Coe has been with organization for nearly 14 years in various capacities.
“I really love the fact that I get to give back and be a part of making life better for individuals who don’t have a place and who have been marginalized by the abuse,” she said. “I love being an advocate for them as an administrator.”
She stressed how the nonprofit strives to offer the highest quality of service and human warmth.
Something to note: SFTS also boosted efforts to engage the public in celebrating its 38 years of service — with a donation. That said, locals are encouraged to consider a gift to help survivors “flourish after the storm” in the amounts of $38, $138 or $380.
“Sometimes, you don’t see the light in the darkness,” Coe said. “My job is to be the light. I want people to know that there is a light, and we’re here for them, and that they do have the strength to reach out.
“We might not be able to give them all the answers right away,” she said, “but they don’t have to go through something by themselves.”
For more information, visit shelterfromthestorm.com.
The Inland Empire Community Foundation works to strengthen Inland Southern California through philanthropy. The Women’s Giving Fund, an IECF Signature Fund, was established in 2017 to educate women about philanthropy and to provide grants to IE nonprofits that address critical quality-of-life issues for women. Visit iegives.org/womensgivingfund for more information.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Womens Giving Fund offers hope for victims of domestic violence
Reporting by Greg Archer, Inland Empire Community Foundation / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
