Transitional Housing Program Initiative

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Transitional Housing Program

Bridging the Gap for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

In Chester County, South Carolina, the need for transitional housing and trauma-informed care has never been more urgent. As one of the most underserved regions in the state, Chester County lacks a dedicated brick-and-mortar victim service provider (VSP), leaving many survivors—particularly Black women and their children—without essential resources to escape abuse and rebuild their lives.

The Need for Transitional Housing

With a population of approximately 32,000, Chester County faces unique challenges:

  • 38.6% of residents identify as Black or African American.
  • 1,700 Black women are single mothers, raising 2,700 children.
  • 25–30% of Black families in South Carolina live below the poverty line.

This combination of poverty, housing insecurity, and systemic inequities places survivors at an increased risk of continued abuse, economic instability, and long-term trauma. Additionally:

  • Domestic violence cases have risen by 18% over the past three years.
  • 10% of Chester County residents speak a language other than English, creating access barriers.
  • 16.9% of residents live with a disability, emphasizing the need for physically accessible services.

Our Vision for Transitional Housing

Catapult Outreach’s Transitional Housing Program will offer a safe and supportive environment for survivors and their families, providing the stability needed to transition toward independence.

Key Features:

  • Safe and Secure Housing: A two-story facility designed to accommodate 8–10 survivors for stays of 6–24 months, with an optional six-month extension for those actively pursuing permanent housing.
  • Economic Empowerment: Tailored job training, resume workshops, and financial literacy sessions to foster long-term financial independence.
  • Trauma-Informed Services: Access to licensed therapists, support groups, and culturally competent case management.
  • Family Support: Childcare assistance, transportation services, and family reunification initiatives to empower survivors and their children.

Meeting Chester County’s Unique Needs

Catapult Outreach is committed to addressing systemic inequities through:

  • Culturally Competent Training: All staff undergo mandatory training to ensure they understand the intersection of race, trauma, and economic disempowerment.
  • Community Engagement: Partnerships with local organizations and leaders amplify outreach efforts and elevate survivor voices.
  • Accessibility: Services designed to accommodate non-English speakers and individuals with disabilities.

How Funding Will Help

To make this program a reality, $300,000 is needed to:

  • Secure Housing: Purchase or rent a two-story property in Chester County.
  • Renovate and Furnish: Adapt the facility to meet safety and accessibility standards.
  • Hire Qualified Staff: Include case managers, housing specialists, and trauma-informed therapists.
  • Provide Essential Services: Cover operational costs, counseling, and job training programs tailored to survivors’ needs.

Join Us in Building Hope

By supporting this initiative, you can help Catapult Outreach:

  • Transition 85% of survivors into permanent housing within 24 months.
  • Empower 75% of participants to achieve financial independence through employment or training.
  • Foster resilience and emotional well-being for survivors and their families.

Get Involved

Your contribution directly impacts the lives of survivors in Chester County and beyond.

  • Donate Today: Help fund the creation of a safe and supportive transitional housing facility.
  • Partner With Us: Collaborate to expand access to essential services for survivors.
  • Spread the Word: Share this initiative with your network and help raise awareness.

Contact Us

Together, we can bridge the gap and offer survivors the sanctuary they deserve.