Domestic violence shelter celebrates its expansion

By Mary Goldmeer
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As Arizona continues to grapple with the impact of domestic violence, the New Life Center in Goodyear is answering the call with a major expansion. The shelter, which already supports over 300 survivors annually, is unveiling six new rooms designed to provide much-needed refuge for survivors, increasing its capacity by 100 people each year. The expansion comes at a time when local law enforcement reports rising demand for safe spaces as domestic violence remains one of the most pressing issues facing the community.

Goodyear Chief of Police, Brian Issitt, highlighted the urgency of these additions during the shelter’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, saying that domestic violence is one of the most heart-wrenching calls officers regularly respond to.

“This is where law enforcement meets confession, where emergency response meets long term healing. Our good year officers are trained to do their job, to intervene, to protect, to remove people from danger. But we cannot do it alone. We need partners. We need safe places. We take survivors, places that don't just offer safety for one night, but a path to stability and recovery. New Life Center is one of those partners," said Issitt. "This place represents refuge. It represents a lifeline… it represents hope."

According to the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, Arizona saw 84 domestic violence-related deaths in 2023. And despite the constant need, New Life Center states that nearly 88% of survivors seeking shelter in Maricopa County are turned away due to a lack of resources and space. The New Life Center’s expansion aims to change that by providing additional, secure space for those fleeing violence.

The newly opened six suites, which the center refers to as “villas,” are designed to meet the specific needs of survivors who arrive without children. In addition to the villas, the center has also renovated its campus to include updated spaces that foster healing and dignity for those in need.

 “(We) designed a space that is not only functional, but also trauma informed,” said Kate Thone, CEO of New Life Center. “Every detail was chosen with the wellbeing of survivors that come to us, with them in mine, top of mind.”

The center’s renovation includes significant upgrades to its existing structures, including the family housing spaces and clubhouse, which serves as a hub for children and families to connect and build a sense of community. Thone said these renovations were made possible thanks to a collaborative effort among the shelter’s donors, volunteers, and construction partners.

Key sponsors include Thunderbirds Charities, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, the Del E. Webb Foundation, and BHHS Legacy Foundation. In addition to the villas, these foundations helped fund other vital improvements across the shelter, including the landscaping, furnishing, and trauma-informed design of the new spaces. 

Several additional projects are already underway at New Life Center to further enhance safety and support for survivors.

A new perimeter fence is being built around the property, which will improve security and provide peace of mind for survivors. The center is also enhancing its basketball court with an eight-foot block wall and a vibrant basketball mural and playground, creating a safe space for physical activity and healing. All of these projects are funded by grants and charitable donations from the community. 

 “Every improvement reflects our commitment to providing a holistic approach to recovery,” said Thone.

Thone said the shelter’s expansion is a reminder of what can be accomplished when local leaders, law enforcement, nonprofits, and community partners work together. 

Chief Issitt emphasized the importance of these partnerships in keeping survivors safe. “We can’t do this work alone,” he said. “We need safe places like the New Life Center to ensure survivors have somewhere to go. This expansion is a direct response to the real, urgent need in our community.”

As part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were invited to tour the newly renovated spaces and experience firsthand how the center is evolving. The celebration also included recognition of the many volunteers and staff who have contributed to the New Life Center’s success, including the quilters who create handmade quilts for every survivor who stays at the shelter.

“Your generosity, time, and commitment wraps, literally wraps each person and comfort and compassion when they arrive at our shelter,” said Thone. “It’s not just about providing a safe space, it’s about showing survivors that they are loved, supported, and cared for as they begin the next chapter of their lives.”

The opening of the new villas marks a milestone in the New Life Center’s ongoing commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence. With continued support from the community, law enforcement, and local organizations, the center is poised to expand its impact and continue offering a lifeline to those in need.

"Together, we're ensuring more survivors now don't just have a place to rest their heads, but a place to really begin again,” said Thone. 

Visist newlifectr.org for more information on domestic violence or how to get involved at New Life Center.