October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and escaping domestic violence is a leading cause for survivors to experience homelessness. 38% percent of domestic violence survivors will be homeless at least once and over 90% of homeless women have experienced domestic violence. The University of Alaska Anchorage completed a survey in 2020 of 2,100 adult women and asked these women questions about intimate partner violence, sexual violence, stalking, and physical and psychological abuse. Of those surveyed, an alarming 57.7% reported experiencing one or a combination type of violence – that's more than one in two Alaskan women impacted over their lifetime. The Alaska Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault has cited a similar survey which showed that 30.2% of Alaskan men experienced a similar combination of violence. Despite these staggering statistics, resources for survivors are severely lacking. Many shelters are at capacity, and financial assistance for housing is often insufficient. We need to come together as a community to tell our elected officials that policies need to change to address domestic violence and its subsequent impacts.
Client impact on contact changes at the Cold Weather Shelter
After extending our contract at the Cold Weather Shelter numerous times, the municipality awarded the congregate shelter for this upcoming emergency cold weather sheltering season to Catholic Social Services. Henning has served hundreds of Alaskans experiencing homelessness in the CWS shelter for three years; we’re incredibly disappointed in their decision because we have built needed trust and strong relationships over the years. At a town hall meeting this Wednesday, we listened to the many concerns our clients shared about the change in service providers.
There were many questions around how the shelter will operate differently when our contact ends on October 15th, and we share many of their same concerns. We pride ourselves on the compassion and empathy we show our clients, as well as our shared lived experience. We know that our peer support and lived experience model is what has made our team successful. When Catholic Social Services start their operations, those staying at CWS will restart their process for resources, housing, treatment, and mental health services. To many, this raises concerns and feels like a step backwards in their journey to recovery. While our staff will longer be on site, our clients know that we will always be here to give support and help.
Going beyond shelter through workforce development.
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Reverb program, designed to help our clients on an individual basis to transition back into the workforce after experiencing homelessness. Just as our shelter-to-housing model emphasizes gradual steps, Reverb offers tailored support for clients adjusting to work life and giving them necessary skills to use beyond the program.
A dedicated group from the Cold Weather Shelter joined forces to clean and beautify the Spenard area. This initiative not only promotes community pride but also empowers our clients, providing them with valuable teamwork experience and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a powerful reminder of how we go beyond providing shelter—walking alongside our clients on their journey to recovery and reintegration into the community.
Reverb is more than just a workforce development program; it’s a holistic approach to support. Participants will have access to job training, mentorship, and resources designed to help them thrive. We believe that with the right guidance and opportunities, everyone can rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
Let’s get to work,
Shawn Hays
Founder & Executive Director
Henning Inc.