domestic violence services
Please note that we refer to the person being abused as a ‘survivor’ rather then a ‘victim’ out of respect for the ability and skills the survivor has in navigating, coping with, and surviving the relationship with the abuser.
Domestic violence is a largely hidden—yet incredibly common and dangerous issue in our community. It can affect anyone, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, religion, income, sexual orientation or marital status.
The YWCA’s Domestic Violence program supports survivors of domestic violence to achieve personal safety, self-sufficiency, and a renewed sense of hope through our services at The Gateway Center, Home Forward, and the Yolanda House facility.
Watch one of our clients tell her story about reuniting with her daughter.
the gateway center
The Gateway Center is the City of Portland’s walk-in center for survivors of domestic violence and their children.
The YWCA has a Navigator and Emergency Advocate co-located at the Gateway Center. The primary role of these staff are to:
- provide survivors with individually customized safety plans
- support survivors to retain their housing, or secure alternative emergency housing
- coordinate motel vouchers and / or rent assistance
- facilitate housing referrals and address confidentiality programs
- facilitate access to emergency clothing, food, and personal care supplies
- provide advocacy for court-ordered protection
- provide transition, life skills, and on going support to survivors
The Gateway Center acts as a one-stop-shop for survivors of domestic violence, ensuring that survivors are connected with the right services at the right time.
home forward
Home Forward (previously the Housing Authority of Portland) is an arm of the Portland City Council, that is committed to delivering affordable housing and social services to people in need. Home Forward has a special responsibility to those who encounter barriers to housing because of income, disability, or special need.
The YWCA has two Emergency Advocates co-located at Home Forward. The primary role of these staff are to support survivors of domestic violence to retain their housing, or secure alternative emergency housing during times of crisis.
yolanda house
The newly transitioned Yolanda House facility is a long-term communal housing program, that provides survivors of domestic violence and their children a safe haven to get back on their feet after escaping the atrocity of domestic violence.
Managed by the Recovery Association Project (RAP), who have a well established history of providing safe and supportive housing for people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, the Yolanda House facility empowers survivors of domestic violence to achieve personal safety, self-sufficiency, and a renewed sense of hope.
Yolanda House is named in honor of the late Yolanda Panek, a YWCA program director, who was brutally murdered by her ex-boyfriend, in front of their 2-year old son, on July 13, 1995. Commenting on the shelter, Yolanda’s mother Susan Panek said “In my heart I know that Yolanda’s gift of caring for others will continue through Yolanda House.”