C.A.R.E. is the certified Victims Services Center in Charlotte County. Dealing with the urgent crisis of victims’ needs for assessment of threats, safety planning, hospital responses based on serious injury from abuse or rape, and coming in for safe shelter are the immediate focus of C.A.R.E. Advocates interact with victims who contact us for help. Advocates are focused on empowering survivors to make informed decisions for themselves as they seek to build an independent life, free of violence for themselves and their families.
A key component to this life-changing work is the Economic Empowerment Program. Survivors have access to resources that help evaluate career training options, as well as preparation for applying and interviewing for jobs that will allow them to support themselves and not return to the abusive household. They also learn to manage their finances and rebuild credit ratings in order to secure housing and transportation needs. These are big challenges to prepare to face, particularly if one is working a minimum-wage job. In our community barriers to building up resources to be successful are high costs of housing, lack of local transportation, and childcare expenses.
C.A.R.E. has purchased a childcare facility. Funds are needed to make some interior improvements, add security systems, and to build an interactive, fenced-in playground. These bricks will form the walkway between the building and the play area. Our plan is to provide in-house childcare for survivors while they go to work or attend training classes to build career skills. This service will be provided free of charge to our clients for children ages 1 to 4. It is a big step to help survivors build their independence and set themselves up for employment success.
Our Child Care Program will provide a support system for parents and children during a very stressful time in their lives. Our philosophy is to provide a safe and secure environment where children are encouraged to play, laugh, learn, and put their fears aside. Staff accepts each child as an individual, and helps children develop at their own pace by providing a warm and affectionate environment that celebrates all of the cultures and backgrounds of children.
Our goal is to prepare survivors for independence and personal success. They work to be self-reliant and are free to live in peace.
If you have any questions, please contact: [email protected]
