Carlisle, PA – January 5, 2022: The CommunityAid Foundation recently awarded Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland & Perry Counties (DVSCP) a $25,000 grant to support the agency’s emergency shelter services. The funds will specifically aid the agency in providing shelter and rental assistance during the pandemic.

CommunityAid is a Christian-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that employs more than 400 people across six Central PA thrift stores and provides financial support to non-profit partners serving the local community. In 2021, CommunityAid launched the CommunityAid Foundation, aimed at growing the support CommunityAid provides to its non-profit partners by offering more funding opportunities and time-saving tools. The grant that DVSCP received was part of the first round of giving that the Foundation has released to date.

Last year continued to be challenging for everyone, but more so for those attempting to escape an abuser. Since the initial outbreak, DVSCP has faced the unexpected costs of moteling clients rather than bringing them into the communal living space of the emergency shelter. The agency plans on continuing to do this until it is safe for both residents and staff to reopen the shelter.

In addition to the Emergency Shelter, funds from the CommunityAid Foundation will be used to pay for an additional three months’ rent for families moving out of shelter into safe housing. Currently, DVSCP is able to pay the security deposit and the first month’s rent.

“We are so grateful to the CommunityAid Foundation for this grant, which will allow us to give our families a better opportunity to establish themselves financially when leaving shelter,” stated Executive Director Sonya Browne. “Last year, our agency helped find safe homes for 74% of those staying in the shelter.”

CommunityAid has also selected DVSCP for its first quarter RoundUp Program. Anyone who shops at the CommunityAid store at 4833 Carlisle Pike from Wednesday, January 5, through March 31, will have the option to ’round up’ the purchase total to the next dollar amount. Small change for shoppers could add up to a big donation to help someone in our community experiencing domestic violence. The store is open Monday-Saturday from 9am to 9pm.

DVSCP has remained on the frontlines throughout the pandemic and has seen increases in each service it provides. For more information on how you can help, please visit www.dvscp.org/donate or call 717-258-4806.