MANSFIELD — The Domestic Violence Shelter is seeking donations to help cover the cost of crucial van repairs.
One of two vehicles owned by The Shelter, the 2013 vehicle is regularly used for transporting survivors to counseling, medical care, legal appointments and other critical services.
Executive Director Colleen Rice said the organization created a special “Drive” Change campaign on its website after getting quotes back on the repair cost.
“This is historically a very generous community, so we thought why not involve them and let them know what the needs are?” Rice said.
Among the laundry list of repairs needed is a front seat belt repair, oil change, new cabin filter, transmission and break flushes, new spark plugs, new rear windshield wipers and a decarbonation service. The estimated cost is just under $3,200.
“Our van is much more than a set of wheels—it’s a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence,” Rice said. “It’s how they get to safety in moments of crisis.”
The Shelter was one of the first three domestic violence shelters in the state of Ohio when it opened in 1979. Today, it serves survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and stalking.
Its current property spans features 14 rooms for survivors, families and pets that can comfortably accommodate up to 48 individuals.
Rice said the need for services remains high and the shelter is often at maximum capacity.
“We’re seeing up to 250 people a year stay in the shelter,” Rice said. “It’s been really busy here. During the holidays we were really full.”
Rice said the shelter has had to set up beds in the teen rec room and even secure temporary housing outside the shelter to keep up with the need.
The shelter is also seeking donations for several items, including clothing, bedding and toiletries.
- Comforters (queen and twin sized)
- Sheet sets (full and twin sized)
- Hats
- Mittens
- Sweat Pants
- T-Shirts
- Sweat Shirts
- Plus-Sized Bras and Underwear
- Electric blankets
- Weighted blankets
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Liquid shower soap
- Hair conditioner (curly and ethnic hair products are especially needed)
- Lotion
- Bath towels and washcloths
- Slippers
Rice said the shelter’s goal is to build up a supply of new bedding so that residents can take a set with them when they leave, since many arrive without it.
In addition to providing needed funds and services, donations and volunteer service hours help the shelter meet its grant match requirements through the state.
Rice said the shelter has to raise around $100,000 a year to meet the match requirements of four different state grant programs, but donated hours and in-kind contributions can count towards the total.
Community members can donate by clicking here or visiting the shelter’s website.
To arrange item donations, contact Kate Henderson at khenderson@thedvshelter.com or call 419-774-5843 ext. 100.