MANSFIELD — The Domestic Violence Shelter has announced the launch of its 2025 fundraising campaign, “Room to Heal” beginning Aug. 1.
For the first time in over 20 years, the shelter is offering the community an opportunity to sponsor individual spaces within its building, directly supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
“As we look to the future, maintaining the level of service will only be possible with the community’s support,” said Colleen Rice, Executive Director.
“Sponsoring a space within our shelter, can help ensure that every survivor who turns to us for help finds safety, support, and hope.”
In the past year alone, the shelter provided safety and support to 144 survivors, offering a haven during their most vulnerable moments.
The shelter’s 24/7 hotline answered 847 calls, delivering immediate help and life-saving resources to individuals in crisis.
The Sexual Assault Program served 172 survivors in 2024, including children and adults from diverse backgrounds. With the number of those seeking services doubling in recent months, the need for community support has never been greater.
Founded in 1978 as one of Ohio’s first three domestic violence shelters, The Domestic Violence Shelter, Inc. began in a downtown Mansfield office with an all-volunteer staff.
Thanks to the generosity of the community, the shelter soon moved into a donated three-story house, which was renovated into a four-bedroom shelter with administrative offices.
Today, the shelter spans over 16,622 square feet, featuring 14 rooms for survivors, families, and pets, and can accommodate up to 48 individuals.
Services include emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, intensive case management, support groups, legal advocacy, hospital advocacy for survivors of sexual assault, community awareness and education.
The shelter supports survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Colleen Rice at 419-774-5843, extension 101.
