By Tracey McConnell.Community Development Director
Verde Valley Sanctuary
Verde Valley News – Verde Valley Sanctuary (VVS)’ mission is to provide safety, services, and comfort to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. We are the only service provider of our kind within a 50-mile radius, and the only provider of services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in the Verde Valley region.
The VVS Emergency Shelter is in desperate need of the following 10 items:
- 15 twin flat sheets (preferably white)
- 10 twin fitted sheets (preferably white)
- 10 twin plastic mattress protectors
- 10 twin comforters or bedspread
- 20 towels / washcloths
- 20 dish towels
- 5 bathmats
- eye masks
- ear plugs
- shampoo and conditioner (full size)
Our original shelter slept six and now sleeps 32 and, unfortunately, is almost always at capacity. When we are full, we do our best to find safe shelter for a few nights through the use of partnering hotels until we can safely relocate survivors into shelter, or out of the Verde Valley.
In addition to staffing our 24-hour crisis line (928) 634-2511, Shelter Advocates assist survivor residents with 24/7 trauma-informed care, safety planning, referrals to support groups and counseling services, intensive advocacy, support programs for children, childcare, transportation, self-care, emotional support, addressing basic needs, learning about domestic violence, learning about options, referrals to medical, mental, and emotional health services, financial help, support with navigating the legal system, accommodations for survivors with physical and other disabilities, and permanent housing support. As we are a temporary emergency shelter, our maximum stay is four months.
We could really use your help! For more information about Verde Valley Sanctuary or to make a monetary or in-kind donation, contact Community Development Director Tracey McConnell at (928) 282-2755, tracey@verdevalleysanctuary.org, or visit the website https://verdevalleysanctuary.org.