Since 1920, The YWCA of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County has been impacting our community through an ever-evolving array of services. Our core mission is to assist victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking while improving the lives of individuals and children residing in Anne Arundel County. We do so by operating the County's only domestic violence safe house as well as providing licensed therapy, representation in peace and protective orders, 24-hour crisis hotline support, abuser intervention training and a specialized 6-week education and job skills development series specific to those who have experienced domestic violence.

Today, we face fresh challenges as we adapt to a world reeling in the wake of COVID-19. The news is riddled with reports of increased domestic violence activity that many are linking to the stay-at-home order, focused on stopping the spread. Individuals in domestic violence situations find themselves in a unique and terrifying danger as they are forced to share a living space with a volatile human in a volatile time.

The demand for our services has increased, forcing us to quickly pivot. Though a daunting task, we are grateful to report that our services are still accessible. However, it is not without cost. As a result of COVID-19, we have had to cancel our major annual fundraising event. These funds are used to provide direct services to our clients. Thankfully, many of our donors opted to forgo receiving their event refund, and our team has been actively applying for grants. Still, we are not out of the woods and need your help.

What keeps us going is the unending support from people like you. We ask that you join us in supporting those at extreme risk and donate to our organization. Not only will your donation ensure essential operational support, but it will also provide our safe house residents with the resources to meet urgent needs. In giving to our organization, you are contributing to the physical and emotional stability of our clients, thus empowering them with what they need to be free from an abusive relationship.

For whatever amount you can manage in these times that are challenging to everyone, know that we are deeply grateful.

Stay healthy,

YWCA Team