New Hope for Women (NHFW) recently received local approval for funds through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP). Funds will assist with sheltering victims of domestic violence in each of the four counties that New Hope Women has served for nearly 40 years: Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox and Waldo. Some EFSP funds granted will also be used to provide for basic needs during sheltering as well as for security deposits on more permanent housing.

The pandemic has brought about a tremendous increase in the need for safe and immediate sheltering. Following the current trend in emergency housing and, when safe to do so, New Hope for Women works to place victims and families in situations that are cost-effective and least disruptive. This has recently included partnering with local lodging sites that allow families to remain in familiar surroundings and the same school district, and permit victims who are employed to continue working. In these ways, housing becomes more than sheltering; it promotes continued interactions with society as victims receive the supports they need to achieve greater self-sufficiency.

In 2019 fiscal year, the agency provided 202 shelter nights for victims and family members. This has skyrocketed to 3,048 during the 2020 fiscal year.

New Hope for Women will launch a two-week Giving Tuesday Shelter Campaign on Dec. 1. For more information, visit Facebook and Instagram, call 594-2128 or contact jlemole@newhopeforwomen.org.

COVID-19 Update: We're still here. We are continuing to provide all of our direct advocacy services remotely, utilizing our 24-hour helpline (1-800-522-3304). Due to the COVID-19 virus and state mandate, our offices are closed to the public until further notice.