As we shared in last week’s statement on COVID-19, Doorways is dedicated to the safety of our clients, staff, and volunteers. We are also committed to the continuity of our critical services for youth and families experiencing homelessness and for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. 

As we are all challenged to modify our day-to-day in the coming weeks, we ask you to think of community members who will become even more vulnerable and at risk during these times, and consider how we—all of us, together—are their only safety net. We anticipate that changes in school, childcare, work, income and finances, health needs and management, and living situations may increase instances of domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, financial insecurity and more.

Our goal is to continue delivering Doorways’ critical response to our clients while doing all we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially among our clients and staff. As such, we have shifted as many of our employees as possible to remote work, cancelled group activities and meetings, and are shifting the ways in which we deliver some of our services and support:

Beyond the immediate term, the ripple effects of this crisis will continue to impact our clients and our community. Most of our clients earn minimum or low wages, and many do not have paid leave. As schools and daycares close, many do not have childcare alternatives. Some clients may lose income, and others may lose their jobs altogether; we have already had a client lose a job due to COVID-19.

During this crisis and beyond it, Doorways is here to support our clients, because you—our partners in the community—are here to support Doorways. In a time of such fear, confusion and uncertainty, we need to come together like never before. We know this is no small ask, as we are all trying to manage moment-to-moment, unsure of what is next. But now is the time to ensure that our community’s vulnerable members do not get left behind or lost in the gaps created by circumstances like inadequate wages and nonexistent paid leave. 

Because our clients are at greater risk of suffering the deeper, longer-lasting impacts of this crisis, we need you to invest in them, in us, now. If you have extra to share, now is the time to share it. If you do not, please consider starting a Facebook fundraiser or forwarding this message to your friends.

PS -- The essential household supplies you're having a hard time finding? Us, too. Help us keep our clients healthy and our shelters clean with urgently needed cleaning supplies. You can ship these items to us through Amazon, or send Giant and Safeway gift cards to PO Box 100185, Arlington, VA 22210 so that our staff can purchase these items in stores. Thank you!

We also need Similac Advance Baby Formula, which our clients are unable to find in local stores. To donate some, please contact Anna at [email protected].

If you are 70½ years old or older, you can take advantage of a simple, tax-advantaged way to support Doorways -- an IRA Charitable Rollover. You can give any amount up to $100,000 from your traditional IRA directly to a qualified charity, like Doorways, without having to pay income taxes on the money. The charitable rollover does not generate taxable income nor does it result in a charitable income tax deduction, so you can benefit even if you do not itemize your deductions. If you are 72 years old and have not yet taken your required minimum distribution for the year, your gift can satisfy all or part of that requirement.

Please contact Joy Myers, Chief Development Officer, at (703) 504-9290 or [email protected] for more information on this smart giving strategy!

Aairah came to Doorways' Domestic Violence Safehouse escaping abuse from her husband. Like many survivors of domestic violence, she felt ashamed and disempowered. Our Domestic and Sexual Violence Programs staff partnered with Aairah in her healing process, helping her to meld the traditional values so central to her life with the new pathway ahead of her.

As it looks more and more like we might be limited in how much time we can spend together in person during April, check out Start By Believing Day, Teal Out, and Denim Day -- three great ways to raise awareness, show support for survivors, and raise funds to support them, all through social media!