Domestic violence shelter gets $250K grant from Parsons Foundation

Sojourner Center received a $250,000 multiyear general operating grant from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation that will provide safe shelter and supportive services to survivors of abuse and their children.

The funding will underwrite 2,775 nights of rest for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking during the next two years, according to a press release.

“Here in Arizona, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence. The numbers are staggering and we’re so grateful for the funding and the opportunity to reach more people in need,” said Julie Peterson, co-executive director of the Phoenix-based Sojourner Center, in a press release.

Sojourner Center serves at least 2,000 survivors each year with a range of services, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, pet companion services, a dedicated emergency hotline, and more.

“Survivors of domestic violence come to Sojourner Center in crisis, often lacking options or a safe place to turn,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation.

The grant comes during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. In Arizona, a child witnesses domestic violence every 44 minutes. More than 60 percent of those served at the Sojourner Center being children, according to a press release.

“No one should have to live in fear—especially children,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Sojourner Center provides survivors and their children with the safety, resources, and support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”

Sojourner Center is one of the only domestic violence shelters in Maricopa County with an on-site Pet Companion Shelter. Up to half of survivors delay leaving their abuser for fear of what will happen to their pet. Sojourner’s campus is designed to be pet-friendly so pets can stay with their owners. Additionally, they operate a 24/7 Support Hotline where all staff are trained in trauma-informed crisis intervention techniques.