The Arlington-based social-safety-net provider Doorways is set to receive $1.5 million in federal funding for SafeStart, a new initiative to increase the non-profit’s shelter and housing for survivors and their families.
U.S. Rep, Don Beyer (D-8th) secured funding through the Community Development Block Grant program, which supports community-development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The funding creates the opportunity for Doorways to expand its capacity to serve more survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
“In the last five years, the number of survivors and their children sheltered by Doorways has more than doubled,” said Doorways’ president/CEO, Diana Ortiz. “Meanwhile, sources of funding . . . have decreased significantly. We are grateful to Congressman Beyer for prioritizing survivors and helping Doorways secure the additional units we need to continue fulfilling our promise of safehousing for all.”
The SafeStart project and the repurposing of Doorways’ Family Home shelter, a project slated for this summer and fall, are part of the agency’s broader strategy to expand and strengthen its safehousing infrastructure to meet the Arlington community’s growing needs.
Funds awarded to Doorways through the initiative must be matched one-to-one by the Arlington community. For information on the initiative, see the Website at www.doorwaysva.org.
