NEW ORLEANS – To celebrate its 15th anniversary, the New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter has launched the 15 Forward campaign “offering 15 creative options for the public to give back and help NOWCS propel homeless families toward brighter futures.”
“We know New Orleans area residents see the impacts of homelessness and want to help,” said Dawn Bradley-Fletcher, NOWCS executive director. “Our campaign offers 15 options to support our mission of breaking the cycle of homelessness.”
Options include donating $15, inviting 15 friends to tour the shelter or signing up to volunteer. NOWCS will also be selling a 15th anniversary T-shirt, designed by artist and illustrator Melissa Vandiver. Learn more about 15 years of NOWCS outcomes by watching this celebration video, produced and donated by local New Orleans production company Fat Happy Media.
As presenting sponsor of the 15 Forward campaign, long-term donor Gulf Coast Bank & Trust has acted on the call for help with a $15,000 contribution. NOWCS hopes the contribution inspires others to support as well.
To date, more than 4,000 lives, over half of which are children have been launched on paths toward self-sufficiency due to the work and services of NOWCS, at zero cost to the residents. NOWCS offers single mothers, single fathers and intact families with children a safe place to stay together as they seek the training and support they need to live independently.
“We are especially proud to say we have a 98% success rate in preventing the return to homelessness among the residents we serve,” said Bradley-Fletcher. “What makes NOWCS different from other shelters is that it offers a wide range of services and life skills training to keep families on a positive track,” Bradley-Fletcher says.
NOWCS services include case management, employment, education and life skills training for adults plus children’s programs, assistance locating housing, and at least 18 months of transition support after a family leaves the shelter.
The 15 Forward campaign kicked off Friday, Aug. 12 with a celebration at NOWCS’ 2020 S. Liberty Street location. The party featured food, fun and interactive activities for guests interested in learning more.