Fifty years ago, the nation’s first shelter dedicated to domestic violence survivors opened its doors in St. Paul. Women’s Advocates, founded in 1974, has been a haven for those escaping abusive relationships by providing life-changing resources, support and safety.

Women’s Advocates began as a grassroots initiative during a pivotal moment in women’s rights history. Co-founder Sharon Rice Vaughn emphasizes the organization’s foundational belief: “Survivors know what they want; they just can’t get the resources,” she says.

This ethos continues to guide its mission as the center strives to break the cycle of domestic violence and support individuals in reclaiming their lives.

Through radical hospitality, advocacy, and collective action, Women’s Advocates envisions a community free from violence where everyone can lead safe, productive and healthy lives. Their core values—respect, equity, authenticity, compassion and honesty—underpin every interaction and initiative.

According to data collected by Violence Free Minnesota, 29 adult victims of domestic violence were murdered last year by their current or former intimate partner. Many victims are caught in the trap: Attempting to leave, as much as staying, can be deadly. Women’s Advocates staff operate with this knowledge. They provide resources and tools survivors need to move forward, but they don’t pressure people to act.

“The offer can sit there until they’re ready to talk about it and go through the processes. It’s their journey and their decision,” said Nisha Taylor, a housing stability manager. “When I meet a survivor, the first thing I say is, ‘I’m sorry that you’re here, but I’m glad that you’re here.’ 

“I don’t know how hard it was for them to pick up the phone and call us, or what it took for them to get here. I want to make sure that they know, regardless of whatever situation they endured, we’re happy that they’re here now, and we’re looking forward to helping them move forward in their journey.”

Women’s Advocates provides tailored support to ensure everyone feels safe and welcome—serving all genders and sexualities. “Although this is a predominantly woman-operated space, this isn’t a space exclusively for women,” notes Associate Director Jake De Vera. 

The LGBTQ+ community is experiencing domestic violence at alarming rates, according to a report written by a team of researchers at the Center on Women, Gender, and Public Policy (CWGPP) at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs. And yet, many of these instances aren’t being reported.

Almost half (47%) of Minnesota LGBTQ+ survey respondents reported experiencing physical or emotional abuse in a relationship over their lifetime. Less than one-third (28%) told someone about the abuse, and only 3% reported the abuse to the police.

“Queer folks have worked hard to form their identities around the right to love freely,” De Vera said. “Many have struggled to express their truth. After fighting for their relationships to be recognized, it’s difficult to critically assess if those relationships are harmful.

“It doesn’t help that many shelters are very binary. They often fail to acknowledge the violence faced by LGBTQ+ communities.”

Trans and non-binary people often struggle to find shelters where they feel safe and supported. Women’s Advocacy operates with a focus on empathy and education, regardless of how one may identify. 

“We don’t have the vocabulary to talk about [domestic violence], because it hasn’t been granted to us. So, when we experience violence or control in our relationships, we’ll use words like, ‘They’re in a toxic relationship,’ or we’ll say, ‘There’s so much drama over there.’” De Vera said. 

“What those words actually do is substitute for something that is a lot more dangerous and insidious. What we’re actually talking about is something that we shouldn’t be tolerating in our relationships.”

Women’s Advocates operates a 24/7 crisis line and offers emergency shelter for up to 50 individuals and their children. Upon arrival, guests receive comprehensive support to address immediate crises, health concerns, legal issues, and economic challenges. 

Their services extend beyond shelter: The organization recently launched a $14.25 million capital campaign aimed at doubling its shelter beds and expanding its offerings to meet the growing demand for safe housing.

In addition to the Sheila Wellstone Children’s Program, which supports children of victim-survivors, Women’s Advocates established an Alternative Shelter Program for those who may not feel comfortable in traditional shelters. Their innovative Pet Foster Program allows families to keep their pets with them, recognizing pets’ vital role in emotional well-being.

Monthly meetings with a survivor advisory council guide the organization in refining its programs and addressing gaps in service. The organization also actively addresses broader issues related to domestic violence, including substance abuse and financial control, which often intertwine with survivors’ experiences. By hiring a licensed alcohol and drug counselor and offering resources like Narcan and safe-use supplies, Women’s Advocates is tackling the multifaceted nature of abuse.

Housing Stability Services further bolsters their support by providing former residents with a housing stability advocate to help them navigate legal and housing challenges for up to a year after leaving the shelter. This continuity of care is vital for ensuring long-term independence and safety.

Women’s Advocates remains a crucial lifeline for those affected by domestic violence, working tirelessly toward a future free from harm. And as it celebrates 50 years, the organization reflects on a legacy of compassion and resilience.

“This expansion marks a new chapter in our fight to end domestic violence,” said Executive Director Holly Henning, “and with the community’s help, we will continue this vital work for years to come.” 

Get Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you can call, text, or online live chat at the following resources:

  • Minnesota Statewide Day One Crisis Line: call 1-866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995
  • Women’s Advocates 24/7 Crisis Line: 651-227-8284
  • Women’s Advocates 24/7 Live Chat: https://www.wadvocates.org/find-help/

Alexzia Shobe welcomes reader responses to ashobe@spokesman-recorder.com. 

Alexzia Shobe can be reached at ashobe@spokesman-recorder.com.