Pocono News Section

Women's Resource Center Gets Federal Help

Women's Resource Center Gets Federal Help - Monday, October 12, 2009 at 5:45PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Monday, Oct 12, 2009 @ 05:45pm EDT
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY - Victims of domestic violence are getting a helping hand from the federal government. The Women's Resource Center in Scranton received $700,000 in federal funding Monday morning.

The money will go towards two different programs. One is the facility's justice center which helps women though the legal system. The second program is a transitional housing program. There is already one set up in Lackawanna County. That means the money will go to start one in Susquehanna County.

"We've really seen an increase in the number of calls that we've received over the summer as compared to other summers," women's resource center executive director Peg Ruddy said.

The federal funding was presented by Senator Bob Casey and Congressman Paul Kanjorski. Many say the money for the organization's justice center will be a big help.

"It can make the difference in whether or not someone chooses to go to court. It's a very scary place," Carol Shoener said. Shoener works at the women's resource center.

Jeane Decker is a survivor. She says the support she received meant everything.

"Just the non-judgmental support that's provided by all the advocates and the attorneys, when you're interacting with them, it's unimaginable. It's something that you don't get anywhere else," Decker said.

The other part of the federal money will go towards starting a transitional housing program for domestic violence victims in Susquehanna County. It should be operating in early January.

"Rural survivors of violence have even more incredible obstacles in terms of lack of transportation and lack of affordable housing," Ruddy said.

"It's incredibly difficult to escape an abusive, violent relationship when you have nowhere to go. When you can't afford the rent, housing becomes the first priority," Shoener said.

With the federal funing, the women's resource center expects to be able to help an additional 435 people.

To learn more about their services, contact them at (570) 346-4671.