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On May 22, YWCA Greater Cincinnati is celebrated the grand opening of its new domestic violence shelter. The ribbon cutting officially unveiled the new facility, which doubles the organization’s capacity to serve survivors of domestic violence in the Cincinnati region, and a powerful step forward for women and families seeking assistance in their path to survival.

The shelter is at the heart of YWCA Greater Cincinnati’s $11.5 million Mission Forward campaign, which supports critical investments in shelter renovation, expanded racial justice and gender equity advocacy as well as long-term sustainability. The shelter, at 3565 Van Antwerp Place. Cincinnati, 45229, is designed with a trauma-informed approach to promote dignity, autonomy and healing for survivors.

“The YWCA’s new shelter reflects a powerful commitment to dignity, compassion and safety from the first moment a survivor walks through our doors,” said YWCA Greater Cincinnati CEO and President Rickell Howard Smith. “We are proud to be a beacon of hope and a model of trauma-informed care for our community and beyond.”

Trauma-informed design is a philosophy that focuses on creating safe, supportive environments that promote healing for those who have experienced trauma, factors that are critical for domestic violence survivors fleeing violence. It recognizes that the physical environment can impact a person's well-being and behavior, and its goal is to minimize triggers and promote positive experiences.

“We are not just building a shelter. We are building hope, resilience, and a future free from violence,” said Smith. “This new space will ensure survivors have the dignity, support and resources they need to thrive.”

Learn about the shelter and YWCA’s Mission Forward campaign at https://ywcacincinnati.org/.