Birthday Bags at Women’s Shelters
March 1st, 2010 | Giving, Volunteers
by Marilee Tuite
Minnesota has been an important pioneer in establishing women’s shelters as well as helping families celebrate children’s birthdays. With March as women’s history month, Cheerful Givers recognizes some of the local women’s shelters that have participated in the birthday gift bag program.
In 1974 the nation’s first shelter to open was Women’s Advocates in St. Paul. Since then, the shelter has assisted more than 30,000 women and children, for a yearly average of 1,000. The 15-bedroom facility now serves as average of 45 women and children daily.
In 1979 the B. Robert Lewis House opened in Eagan. It was named after Senator Lewis who made many efforts to help women experiencing domestic violence, such as funding for a statewide program. In 1990 the Lewis House expanded by opening a second house. Now located in Hastings, the second Lewis House reaches families in rural communities. The shelters serve approximately 500 women and children each year with an average stay of 14 days. Women can stay as long as necessary to be safe and access the support and resources they need to get into a safe living situation.
“The birthday bags are a great resource for children and those in the community who would otherwise not have access to the supplies to celebrate their special day,” said Jennifer Lind, marketing strategy specialist for Lewis House.
More information about donating birthday bags to these shelters.
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