Give the Gift of Hope

In just the last three months, we’ve answered 500 calls like Melany’s.

As more survivors reach out, we’re calling on you to ensure that no one has to wait.

Because the need is greater than ever, this year, our generous matching donors have doubled the total matching funds to $150,000! Your year-end gift will be matched, dollar for dollar, multiplying your gift at this time of critical need.

With your support, we will continue to be there for every survivor, every time.

“My family and I are now in a safe place.”

Melany called our hotline late one night. She had called us for support before, but this time was different: she was ready to leave and needed somewhere safe to go. Our shelter was full, so we immediately secured a room with one of our hotel partners. Our team met Melany, her 5-year-old twins, Sam and Max, and their little dog, Cookie, there.

That room became the family’s temporary refuge: a safe place where the twins could sleep, with Cookie curled up at their feet. Melany felt like she could finally breathe.

Continue reading

“I am so grateful for Doorways,” Melany said. “They have been there for me at my lowest and have celebrated my accomplishments – even the small ones. They’ve helped my kids and I so much. If it wasn’t for Doorways, I don’t know where or what I’d be doing right now.”

“Months ago, I wasn’t sure if I would make it out of my domestic violence situation alive, but because of Doorways, my family and I are now in a safe place. I’ve had challenges, but Doorways has always been there for me.”

To protect the family in this story, their names and identifying information have been changed. Images used are stock photos, featuring models, for illustrative purposes only.

The Nonprofits That Make Up Arlington’s Safety Net Are Hurting

Local human services organizations are seeing a spike in need at the same time their funding sources are under duress. By Eliza Tebo.

While they wait for the next shoe to drop, Arlington’s human services nonprofits are scrambling to mend the holes already slashed in the social safety net. Demand for assistance is up, resources are stressed and anxiety is pervasive.

“Every nonprofit in Arlington is going to feel this at some point in time,” Daigle says, whether it’s in the form of slashed grant funding, higher operating costs or a drop in private donors’ ability to give.

“We’re worried about the fallout in the months to come,” she says. “If you asked any nonprofit right now, they would tell you that they feel like resources are contracting at the precise moment that the need for the services they provide is expanding.”

Continue reading in the November-December 2025 issue of Arlington Magazine.

How do I help a friend who is in an unhealthy relationship?

When someone tells you that they feel unsafe with their partner, your response is critical. A supportive response from a friend, colleague, or loved one can empower a survivor to believe in themselves and move forward in seeking further support.

1) Believe them:

• Listen without judgement.
• Do not question or blame them (e.g. “Are you sure that happened?” “Did you say or do anything to upset them?”)

2) Reassure them:

• Abuse is never their fault.
• They deserve safety and respect.
• Thank them for sharing and for trusting you.

3) Remind them:

• They are not alone.
• Help is available: Doorways’ 24-Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline: 703-237-0881 or the National Hotline: 800-799-7233 / Text “START” to 88788 / Chat online at www.thehotline.org

While it is difficult to see someone hurting, it is important to understand that you cannot “rescue” the survivor or force them to leave. Further, leaving and the period of time afterwards are the most dangerous for the survivor. Survivors are also likely to return to their partner several times before they leave for good. It is critical to continue being supportive, even if you disagree with the survivor’s choices. We encourage you to reach out to a hotline to seek support for yourself as you navigate caring for someone in an unhealthy situation.