battered women?

Question

I am looking for shelters for women in theTroy N.Y,area?I just opened a hair salon and would like to to offer my services for free to battered women, that are trying to get their life back on track.Would any one know where to look? Thank you

Answer 1

Thank you - that's a really lovely thing to do and will really help their self-esteem.

The only thing that I can tell you is that they are usually secret because, obviously, they don't want people showing up on their doorstep. If you go to the local police station and explain what you want to do, they will probably give you the addresses that they know about - or will at least forward your request to the director of the shelter.

I know that when I used a shelter, I was given gift cards for local merchants so that I could buy clothing, shoes and school supplies for my kids. I was (and am) very grateful for the stores that donated these cards and now that things are much better for me, I patronize those stores and pray that they do well.

I really remember the security procedures for the shelter and they are VERY stringent, so don't be annoyed or put off if you can't get to them right away. They just want to protect the women and children from men who may be actively looking for them to hurt them.

Good luck and many blessings to you!

Answer 2

That's a great idea because a lot of times women in shelters are looking for jobs in order to become independent of their abuser and need services like resume writing and clothing to look their best for interviews.

If the shelter isn't listed in the phone book. Usually it is by city, (ie Troy Women's Shelter). But if you cannot find it, you can call a local behavioral health agency or the police department and they would be able to direct you to the phone number. The location of a shelter is usually kept a secret because of the abuser.

Answer 3

I don't live in Troy, however, from personal experience I know that they do not publicize addresses of these places. Much too often the batterer shows up at the door to seek his wife/girlfriend and there have even been cases where he has killed her.

You may want to check the yellow pages for your local United Way. They may be able to guide you a bit. Also the local YWCA is a good resource.

Thanks for offering your services. I wish there were more people like yourself willing to do so.

Answer 4

thats a very kind thing to do......sometimes battered womens shelters are "underground" and the locations are undisclosed to keep the women and children safe from the former abusers...it might be hard to get an address...maybe you could put out a flyer announcing your service...sometimes these shelters have group transportation for the women to go to chruches and shopping centers...this way the women can get out without there location being disclosed...Merry Christmas to you and God Bless you for your sweet idea

Answer 5

Not only is your idea great I am going to suggest it to our local advocate group whose Board of Directors I sit on. HOWEVER, the likely hood of this happening is slim. Normally the last thing a victim wants is to be identified as a victim. Victims may be hesitant to take advantage of this service.

I suggest you contact your local police department and use their violence against women unit as a resource. Perhaps your employees would go to another location to do the hair, one mutually agreed upon by both parties.

Answer 6

That is very admirable of you. Sometimes they like to keep addresses, etc private because I am having a little difficulty also.. I want to donate some good furniture but they are reluctant to give me the address of even their Central location but if you go to a local church pastor, Rabbi, etc, you can get a contact for your area. Good luck and again.. glad you are wanting to help in the right area.

Answer 7

Bless you...
I'm sorry that i don't have that info, but I pray that you find it. I know that alot of the info is private but maybe you could start with a social service center in your area. They may be able to lead you in the right directions.

Start at your local police station, maybe they could assist you.

Answer 8

I just want to say that is a great idea. I applaud you for doing this. This is such a great way to help a woman who has been battered and self esteem just beaten to a low.

Answer 9

I dont know, but I just wanted to say that you are such a blessing to this world. God truly is using you!!!

Answer 10

the world needs more people like you. Go get them.