Cherokee Nation donates $80,000 to domestic violence shelters
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation donated $80,000 to six domestic violence shelters this week. The funds help support crucial services offered to both native and non-native domestic violence victims in the shelters.
Help-In-Crisis Inc., in Tahlequah; Community Crisis Center Inc., in Miami; Family Crisis and Counseling Center Inc., in Bartlesville; Domestic Violence Intervention Services Inc., in Tulsa; Safenet Services Inc., in Claremore and Women In Safe Homes, in Muskogee, each received a $13,333 check from the tribe.
“We are proud to support organizations that work for the physical and mental health of our citizens, our families and our communities,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “It is essential for the Cherokee Nation to maintain these kinds of partnerships because we have a responsibility to advocate for all women who have survived assault or domestic abuse.”
Domestic violence shelters, like Community Crisis Center, say the money will help purchase supplies such as food and diapers, cover client expenses and maintain the shelter.
“In today’s economy, finding support for vital services is very challenging,” said Deedee Cox, executive director of Community Crisis Center. “Because of help from Cherokee Nation, we can keep our most vital services for our clients, who are desperate for help from the violence in their lives.”
Cherokee Nation’s dedication to combating the domestic violence epidemic not only includes donating tribal money to shelters throughout the tribe’s jurisdiction, but the tribe also runs the Charles L. Head ONE FIRE Against Violence Victim Services Office. The office provides services for victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and dating violence.
Victims of sexual assault or violence can call the Cherokee Nation ONE FIRE emergency hotline at 866-458-5399.
