Dillon, MT — The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) is pleased to announce the grand opening of Heron House, a new shelter dedicated to providing safe and secure emergency housing for survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Beaverhead and Madison Counties. Established in 1977, WRC offers free, confidential services including crisis intervention, advocacy, education and outreach.
Heron House expands WRC’s capacity to help meet the increasing demand for safe shelter in Southwest Montana. WRC advocates fill shelter openings on a first come, first-serve basis. A woman in need of emergency housing must first contact WRC’s crisis line and speak with an advocate. The advocate assesses her situation and, if space is available, arranges for the woman and her children to come into the shelter.
During their temporary stay at Heron House, guests will receive vital support services such as counseling, legal advocacy and material assistance. They will be empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.
“We are thrilled to unveil Heron House as a place of safety and security for survivors seeking refuge and healing,” said Izzi Simonsen, Programs Manager of WRC. “This shelter stands as a testament to the compassionate spirit of our community and our steadfast commitment to support survivors of violence.”
The new shelter is made possible through generous sponsorship from Beaverhead County, Bicentennial Inc., Hunter Family Capital, and private donations from Sandi and Mark Sloan, Donna and George Fryett, Sue and Mike Priebe and Carolyn and O. Temple Sloan Jr. “Such financial support,” explained Rebecca Knotts, Executive Director of WRC, “advances WRC’s mission to create a community where all individuals can live free from violence and fear.”
Located at 236 E. Reeder in Dillon, the WRC main office operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with 24-hour support services available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) and National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673).
For more information about WRC’s services, volunteer opportunities or donation needs, please visit www.wrcmt.org or contact (406) 683-6106.
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