Women's shelter needs twin blankets
For Release: April 28, 2011
Contacts:
Spokane, Wash.—The Hope House
emergency women’s shelter is in urgent need of twin-sized blankets.
Donations can be brought directly to the shelter (111 W Third Ave)
weekdays between the hours of 9am and 5pm or to Volunteers of
America/Crosswalk (525 W Second Ave) at any time. Questions can be
directed 509.455.2886.
“There are so many dangers to women’s health and safety on the
streets. It might seem strange, but a blanket can make a big
difference,” says Rusty Barnett,
director of the Hope House shelter. “When a woman comes to Hope House
looking for a safe, warm place to sleep, wrapping a blanket around her
shoulders warms her body and her heart. Right now, we really need
blankets and other items that we give out.”
The shelter also offers food and hygiene items to anyone who stops
by—whether they stay in the shelter or not. In addition to blankets, the
shelter is in urgent need of personal items like toothpaste,
toothbrushes, feminine hygiene items, shampoo and conditioner (large
bottles are especially helpful), deodorant and razors.
Named for the refuge it provides,
Hope House is the only shelter in the Spokane area that offers refuge
from the dangerous streets to any woman over the age of eighteen,
regardless of her mental health status, chemical dependency issues or
lifestyle. Thirty-four shelter beds are available each night. Each woman
receives personal care including: nutritious food; a hot shower; clean,
dry clothing; hygiene items; a warm bed; onsite case management;
resource information; and referrals to community resources.
Originally known as the Downtown Women's Shelter, Hope House was
founded in response to the 1997 serial murders of women on the streets
of Spokane to offer women protection from violence on the street.
Operated by Volunteers of America since 2001, Hope House offers an
environment of dignity, respect and compassion that honors the intrinsic
value and unique experience of every woman.
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