Alternative House

By on Nov 19, 2024 in Giving

Alternative House

Yardi-supported nonprofit organization Alternative House provides comprehensive domestic violence services in the Greater Lowell area.

Established in 1978 in Lowell, MA, Alternative House (AH) provides emergency shelter and 24-hour crisis hotline services and access to temporary safe housing, transitional/permanent housing, legal advocacy, supervised visitation services, community/housing advocacy, support groups, and youth and teen programming. In addition, AH offers daily access to case management, safety planning, and support around goal setting, financial empowerment and job/education placement. Alternative House plans to increase its housing placement for survivors of domestic violence facing homelessness.

“This is a challenge to leave an abusive relationship and find yourself facing homelessness. With our newly founded Housing department, we can provide access to case managers, housing advocates, childcare, and funding to assist with moving costs and items needed,” explained Maria Crooker-Capone, executive director for Alternative House.

In addition to housing, AH is preparing to increase its youth/teen programming to increase the number of youths served. In addition to after-school help, AH will include education on bullying and teen dating violence, as well as safety planning and transition planning.

Yardi’s support is instrumental in helping AH spread awareness of its mission to foster a society free from violence and oppression. Yardi funding raises visibility for the vital services AH offers and ensures they are accessible to those in need. Through Yardi’s partnership, AH has been able to provide updated technology, supplies, and activities for the youth in programming, making a significant difference in their lives.

“We were thrilled to hear that Yardi continued their support of AH. We truly value their contribution in advancing our efforts and making a meaningful impact in the community. These traumas quite impact children who experience domestic violence and homelessness, and being able to provide a clean, fun, and welcoming space for them is life-changing,” expressed Crooker-Capone.

Counseling Youth

Alternative House expanded its youth and teen program, including a dedicated counseling room at its community support center. This new addition has enhanced its ability to serve survivors and their children. The expansion includes additional counseling sessions, educational workshops, and recreational activities, providing a more comprehensive and personalized support system. This expansion allows AH to offer more personalized and focused support.

“It has been incredibly rewarding to see this expansion’s positive impact, providing a safe and supportive environment,” said Crooker-Capone.

Volunteer Opportunities

Alternative House has several volunteer opportunities that Yardi employees can get involved with. Volunteers can help with activities like organizing wish list drives, helping at events or assembling welcome baskets for shelter guests. To get involved, please get in touch with Liz Brown, engagements and event coordinator, at [email protected].

“We’d like readers to know that our trained domestic violence advocates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to call our hotline at 1-888-291-6228. We are here to provide help and support whenever it’s needed,” said Cooker-Capone.

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