Boise domestic violence shelter hosts virtual fundraiser because of coronavirus
Domestic violence doesn’t just stop because of a global pandemic. It’s not like a school closure or a governor’s order.
If anything, advocates worry that domestic violence victims will have no break from abusers because the governor extended the stay-home order through April 30. With no reprieve from possible abuse, domestic violence shelters and hotlines are more necessary than ever.
Meanwhile, the Boise Women’s and Children’s Alliance is still open and operating, serving victims in need of help. But because the nonprofit’s scheduled fundraising events have been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is in need of funding.
The alliance is hosting a 24-hour virtual fundraiser today, Thursday, April 16, asking people to donate to the WCA or show support on social media.
“Events scheduled for April through June will not happen, leading to a funding deficit of $100,000,” WCA Executive Director Bea Black wrote in an email. “And, just as important, cancellation of these events leads to less outreach and exposure to those who might need our services.”
Every dollar donated Thursday will be matched, up to $40,000, due to several WCA donors. The WCA offers 24 ways people can donate and support the virtual campaign via social media Thursday at www.wcaboise.org.
Some include:
- Donating together, by asking 24 friends to donate $24 each.
- Text WCAHOPE to 44-321 and donating to support the shelter’s mission
- Donating online gift cards for gas and groceries. Those can be sent to volunteeer@wcaboise.org
- Sending an email to 24 friends or work colleagues asking them to take action.
Donors contributing to the match include Erica Hill, Darrow Fiedler, Susie and AJ Balukoff, George Bobango, Aparna Limaye, Eileen Langan Barber, Carol Smith Family, Dave and Terry Self, Julie and Camron Eng-Hirst, Laura and Derek Honn, Bea and Jeff Black, according to the WCA.
Need help?
The WCA is still operating a 24-hour domestic violence crisis hotline at 208-343-7025
Advocates are available in-person from 8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m., Monday-Friday, at 720 W. Washington St. in Boise.
Shelter locations remain open.
This story was originally published April 16, 2020 at 11:08 AM.
