Turning Point Advocacy Services has launched “Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow,” a capital campaign to provide emergency shelter now and well into the future for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.

The Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow fundraising goal is $700,000, the cost related to the much needed repair, renovation and expansion of Turning Point’s current shelter in Warren County. Already, the organization has raised $465,000 in cash and pledges.

“Boonslick Regional Planning Commission has partnered with us by assisting Turning Point in securing a Community Development Block Grant of $350,000,” said Turning Point Executive Director Linda Buschman.

Buschman said other funding has come from the Department of Social Services’ Victims of Crime Act and other donors. With $335,000 still to raise, the organization is expanding Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow.

“We’re reaching out to the community, to friends, contributors, and businesses, old and new, and asking them to partner with us to make this new facility a reality for these brave women as they begin a new life for themselves and their children, free from violence and abuse,” said Buschman.

She added, “Women and children escaping abusive situations deserve a safe and welcoming setting that aids in their healing and provides a stable environment.”

Turning Point’s existing building was not designed as a shelter. Small repairs have made it possible to remain open, but recent septic and foundation failures and noncompliant safety features introduced a harsh reality.

“We either needed to move or renovate. We decided it was important to stay, because the need for our services persists in the area. But to stay, we needed to invest in the property for the long-term, not just make temporary repairs,” said Board Chair Tim Churchill, who is leading the construction project.

The renovation, expected to begin by September, will resolve the structural issues and nearly double the size of the shelter. The new layout makes every space more useful for living, programming and activities. Highlights include:

• A small, closed kitchen will be replaced with an open kitchen with two meal prep areas.

• Dining room seating to increase from 15 to 21.

• Each level to feature laundry rooms, common areas for designated uses, “phone booths” for private calls and offices for staff and clients to work more closely.

• Three dormitory-style rooms to be replaced with six sleeping rooms, each with a full bath, and 12 additional beds.

“With the community’s continued support, for which we are grateful, we’ll provide our clients with the stable, welcoming environment they need to heal and grow into their promising new lives,” said Buschman.

For more information about Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow or to donate, contact Buschman at 636-456-1186 or exec.director@turningpointdvs.com.