How to Open a Transitional Housing Shelter for Abused Women

Shelters provide abused women and their children with safe accommodation.

Victims of domestic violence often leave abusive situations in a hurry and need safe accommodation while they try to transition to a new life. Shelters, which are normally operated on a nonprofit basis, offer temporary as well as transitional living programs, where women and their children can stay, while they receive counseling and help. Places in shelters are limited and applicants must demonstrate their need for help. Rents are usually calculated on a sliding scale, dependent on an applicant's ability to pay. Demand outweighs available accommodation, and the need for new shelters is high. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence states that there are more than 2,000 community-based domestic violence services in the country, but that this number is insufficient.

Instructions

1. Develop a comprehensive business plan and assess the feasibility of your idea. In order to qualify for any start-up grants and loans, an in-depth plan will be required. You must be realistic and recognize that your endeavors, however, well-intentioned will be difficult to achieve. You are going to require a suitable building which complies with federal, state and local health, safety and building codes. You will also require qualified staff to operate the facility and qualified professionals to assist you with the legalities and financial requisites. Additionally, you will need enthusiastic and willing volunteers to assist with fundraising and operations.

2. Seek the assistance of government and nonprofit business start-up experts who can advise you how best you can achieve your goals successfully. The Small Business Administration has regional offices which will provide advice free-of-charge. The Society of Nonprofit Organizations also has many useful nonprofit start-up resources.

3. Research the locality you plan to start your shelter in. There may already be existing facilities that you are unaware of, and there may not be the need you perceive in that specific location. Contact local family and children's service and law enforcement agencies to get their professional opinions and input on the location and need. You will need to build good relationships with these agencies, since you will work with them in the operation of your facility.

4. Obtain state and local business licenses. These will allow you to apply for IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Once you have this status, which can take some months to obtain, you may start fundraising, solicit donations and apply for grants and loans. Ensure your nonprofit complies with state laws on the subject of nonprofits. You will need to gather reputable and qualified individuals to volunteer for your board of directors, as required by your state's specific laws.

5. Find a suitable building to house your shelter. Remember that in addition to the building itself, which may require construction work to bring it up to code standards, you will also require furnishings, appliances and insurance. You will also have to pay for utilities and maintenance on an ongoing basis. Be advised by the professionals you have gathered in your nonprofit, as to whether the time and finances are right to open the shelter. You must be patient and methodical. Start small and grow as and when it becomes possible. Initially, you may not be able to serve as many people, or provide all the services you would like. But hard work and patience are key to your long-term success.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to the management of successful nonprofits for their advice and opinions. They are a valuable resource and you can learn a lot from their experiences.

• Don't assume that your perceptions of local needs are, in fact, the true needs of a community. You must complete comprehensive research and find statistics that support your goals.

• Starting a nonprofit takes dedication and hard work. Be prepared and expect that there will be obstacles that you must overcome.

References

• Find Counseling :Domestic Violence Shelters
• Management Help: Starting a Nonprofit Organization
• Society of Nonprofit Organizations: Starting a Nonprofit

Resources

• Women's Justice Center