Glendale shelter for victims of domestic violence granted $250K for repairs

PHOENIX — A shelter for victims of domestic violence in the West Valley received a $250,000 grant for repairs that were critical to get the building operating safely again.

The New Leaf’s Faith House Crisis Shelter located in Glendale was awarded the grant from Thunderbird Charities after water damage from recent storms prohibited the plumbing from serving less than half the residents living in the 20-unit shelter, the agency said in a press release.

Due to costly repairs that would be required at the oldest operating domestic violence shelter in Arizona, the ability to continue operations was threatened, the release said.

“A New Leaf maintains multiple government grant contracts to support program operations, but we rely on contributions from community corporations, foundations and individuals to fill the gaps,” Laura Bode, director of community engagement at A New Leaf, said in the release.

“Funding for major facility repairs, renovations and new equipment is often out of reach. Thunderbird Charities really came to Faith House’s rescue, and with 35 different programs, has done so more than once for A New Leaf.”

The agency is working to raise money for renovations to the units and bathrooms with the goal of matching the $250,000.

So far, more than $35,000 has been raised and more donations could be made online.

“The needs of domestic violence survivors are changing, and we need to adapt to meet those needs,” Dana Martinez, director of domestic and sexual violence services said.

“The COVID pandemic started the need for de-congregating shelters but through this time we have learned that providing a safe, private space for survivors to heal is what people really need.”

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