Providing a Fresh Start for Women and Children

The Rotary Club of Kentwood is partnering with Rotary District 6290 and Daffodil Ministries to help facilitate safe housing and a fresh start for survivors of domestic violence.

One in three women in the US have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. When fleeing an abusive relationship, someone might escape with only their children and the clothes on their back. Leaving an abuser often leads to homelessness and tremendous challenges due to compromised credit, a marginal rental history, sporadic employment, childcare needs, lack of dependable transportation, and the impact on mental health. Many find a temporary safe place at a shelter, but many shelters have a 60-day maximum stay.

Shelter staff may try to find them permanent housing, but there is a shortage of affordable housing. Compounded with this housing shortage are the side effects of domestic violence and many landlords are not comfortable renting to tenants with this kind of background. Some women have no choice but to go back to their abuser, or to couch-surf, or to live in their car. This can have a devastating impact on them and their children.

This is where Daffodil Ministries steps in. Daffodil helps these resilient women find safe and secure housing by providing resources to cover the cost of apartment application fees, security deposits, and one month’s rent. They also assist with basic furniture, mattresses, cookware, children's clothes, and other necessities as needed.

With the help of a matching grant from District 6290, the Rotary Club of Kentwood is helping five families get a fresh start.