The staff at Empower Yolo’s domestic violence safe house has been working hard to assist families residing there prepare their children for the upcoming school year. While many kids in the community are excitedly getting ready with new backpacks and school supplies and navigating class schedules, the children at the safe house face and overcome additional challenges as they prepare for their first days of school.
“Encouraging learning is so important,” says Sonia Jimenez, shelter director, Empower Yolo. “When children have the tools they need for school, it can foster a positive attitude towards learning and education. This support can play a role in helping the kids at the safe house succeed academically and emotionally,” says Jimenez.
As survivors seek safety, some students may find themselves starting over at new schools and facing food and housing insecurity. To ease this transition, the safe house staff goes above and beyond to support these families at the beginning of the school year, empowering students as they take on new challenges.
Empower Yolo hosts a back-to-school drive every year where backpacks, school supplies, and gift cards are donated for food and clothing for the children at the safe house. Jimenez gives several reasons why preparing for back to school is so important for these special students.
Receiving new backpacks and school supplies can be incredibly meaningful for kids and families residing in our safe house for several reasons: these donations are a symbol of normalcy for children who have experienced upheaval and trauma; new school supplies represent a return to something they are comfortable and familiar with; they can help create a sense of stability and routine, which is crucial for emotional well-being. Families at the shelter often face significant financial challenges; help with back-to-school needs is extremely helpful for families in need. New backpacks and supplies can give children a confidence boost making them feel more prepared and excited for school; receiving new supplies can convey care and support from the community, helping children feel valued and less isolated. It shows that others are thinking about their needs and well-being.
Overall, these gestures go beyond just providing material items, they contribute to a sense of security, support, and encouragement for families who have faced significant challenges.
Helping the kids prepare for school tailored to their unique needs not only provides emotional support but also builds confidence and prepares them for success. According to Jimenez, receiving new backpacks and supplies symbolizes a fresh start and offers hope for children coming from difficult circumstances, potentially alleviating stress and trauma. New school supplies and academic support often lead to improved self-esteem for our students. When kids start school with new items, they may feel more confident and positive about themselves. “The stress of starting school can be heightened when children are unsure about their supplies or feel different from their peers. New backpacks and supplies can help alleviate some of this anxiety, making the transition to school smoother and less intimidating,” says Jimenez
When children receive items that are typically associated with the start of school, they may feel a stronger sense of belonging. This can be particularly important in a shelter environment where children might feel isolated or different from their peers. “Picking out and using their new supplies can give children a sense of ownership and independence. This empowerment can be particularly important for children who have experienced loss of control in their lives due to domestic violence,” says Jimenez.
In addition to backpacks and school supplies, children from our safe house and their families often have a range of other needs as they start school including clothing, food, and transportation. “Addressing these needs can be crucial for supporting their well-being and helping them transition smoothly. Children often need clothing, shoes, socks, and outerwear. Proper clothing can help children feel comfortable and confident,” says Jimenez.
Many families in the safe house also struggle with food insecurity. The cost of groceries has risen significantly making it challenging for families to provide enough nutritional food throughout the week; this may be especially challenging for those residing at the safe house. Survivors don’t have the same access to grocery stores as other parents may have. Free and reduced meals from school districts are helpful. Food pantries and food distribution sites also help supplement the food needs of families. “Gift cards for snacks or meals help the children’s health and academic performance and are always needed,” says Jimenez.
Reliable transportation to and from school can be a challenge for families in the safe house as well. “Assistance with transportation, whether through public transit passes, rideshares, gas, or other means, can ensure that children have consistent access to their education,” says Jimenez.
Children who have experienced domestic violence may benefit from programs outside of school or memberships that help with social integration and peer relationships. Empower Yolo’s After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens (ASSETs) is a supportive after-school program that can help support students with these issues.
Community support through financial and in-kind donations like food and clothing are very helpful and make a huge difference for families at the safe house. The community can best support the children going back to school by donating gift cards for food, snacks, clothing, gas, or transportation. These types of donations are needed for back-to-school and all year round.
Donations can be brought to the main office at 175 Walnut Street in Woodland, or the Resource Center at 441 D Street, Davis during office hours; Monday through Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We are grateful to our community partners and donors including Davis Community Church, Woodland Haven Preschool, University Retirement Community, Limitless Church Woodland, Yolo County Office of Education, Pro Farm Group, and Jen Kukis, financial advisor who have generously donated backpacks and school supplies to the children at the safe house.
The efforts of Empower Yolo’s safe house staff and community partners play a crucial role in supporting families and empowering students as they overcome obstacles for a successful school year. Their dedication and commitment make a significant difference in the lives of these children.