Donations to the Harvest Food and Supply Drive support survivors of domestic abuse and their children utilizing Safe Home services. Pictured is Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan staff with some of the needed items (front from left) Chris Krajewski, Haley Fortune, Megan King, Kim McQuistion, (back) Jen Rashleigh-Houser, Jamie Weaver, Jennifer DeVries, Amber Whitmore-Michel, Amy Strohpaul and Jamie Winters.

The Harvest Food and Supply Drive is one of the most meaningful ways for individuals, groups and organizations to support survivors of domestic abuse and their children in our community.

In northern Michigan, survivors have a secure, caring and supportive place to heal from the emotional and physical pain of domestic abuse and regain control in their lives; the Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan’s Safe Home. Last year, the Safe Home provided families 3,000 nights of shelter, 9,000 meals and all daily needs at no cost.

The Harvest Food and Supply Drive is a significant way community members can support local survivors, according to Safe Home Coordinator, Jamie Winters. “This drive is essential because it represents most of the non-perishable foods, household supplies, paper products and personal care items donated to the Safe Home during the year,” said Winters. “Donations, grocery gift cards and financial contributions offset Safe Home food and supply costs that exceed $25,000 annually and help make the Safe Home feel like ‘home’ for the many families who rely on our services.”

Donations and financial contributions can be brought to the WRCNM main office at 423 Porter Street in Petoskey; Gold Mine Resale Shops in Petoskey; and WRCNM offices in Cheboygan, Gaylord and Mancelona. The Safe Home Needs list is available online at wrcnm.org. For more information or to arrange for pick-up of items, contact Safe Home Coordinator, Jamie Winters at (231) 347-1572.