Local Programs Focused on Women's Empowerment & Well-being

 

As we take a moment to celebrate the mothers in our lives and community, it’s important to recognize the necessity of their health and wellbeing and the inequities that exist. From young women and mothers to single moms, caretakers of full families to elder mothers and grandmothers, the needs of women and mothers are vital-- for herself, for her ability to be successful and to the overall health of the community.

 

In honor of Mother’s Day, we’ve culled a list of our funded community partner’s programs, highlighting several dedicated to the education, health and wellbeing of women and mothers. As a nonprofit organization, much of what we do is in supporting fellow nonprofits providing forward-thinking strategies and resources that address inequities in education, income, and health. By meeting these challenges head on, it is our goal to collectively drive systemic change in alleviating poverty and improving opportunities for future generations in Asheville and Buncombe County. 

 

 

One of the programs we’re proud to support is YWCA’s MotherLove Program, which works to help pregnant and parenting teens stay in school, access higher education, and develop the skills needed to become a strong parent. MotherLove provides direct service and one-on-one support to 30 pregnant and parenting teens, including academic goal setting, access to prenatal care and community services, financial management and parenting skills. MotherLove serves 70 parenting teens with once-a-month 'Lunch Bunch' meetings at area schools as well. 

 

The YWCA also provides drop in childcare, a preventative health program and other supportive services dedicated to empowering women and eliminating racism. Find out more about the YWCA MotherLove Program.

 

 

Residents of public housing face numerous challenges in obtaining critical resources for taking care of basic needs and developing skills. While there are services around the city, many lack access to these resources. The Women’s Wellbeing and Development Foundation created the Hillcrest Resource Center with this in mind. Its mission is to promote healthy living, self-sufficiency, and community wellness by assessing the needs and goals of Hillcrest residents and assisting them to build connections with appropriate community services and resources.  This center, located within the Hillcrest community, increases residents’ access to supports and services, offers opportunities for self-sufficiency and education, and has the potential to improve residents’ quality of life.

 

A recent fire in April of 2018 damaged six of the apartment buildings, leaving 12 people displaced from their homes. The Hillcrest Resource Center is collecting money to help the five families affected by this tragedy as they move into new apartments and urgently need help in restoring their households. Your contribution at this difficult time will be greatly appreciated. Follow this link to their gofundme campaign to offer your support.  Learn more about the work of the Hillcrest Resource Center and how you can get involved.

 

 

OnTrack WNC knows that financially knowledgeable women make better decisions for themselves and their families, increasing their economic security and well being.

The Women's Financial Empowerment Center provides OnTrack WNC's full range of financial counseling and education services with a women-centered approach, responding to women's unique needs and perspectives, to help them reach their financial goals.

 

Take a look at the monthly offerings of OnTrack WNC’s Women’s Financial Empowerment Center.

 

 

 

The diagnosis of any cognitive disorder puts in motion a long and challenging journey for anyone. MemoryCare recognizes the support systems needed and offers assessment, treatment, support and education to patients and families. This isn’t relegated to women only yet valuable to share here in the vein of support services to our elder female community. Learn more about the work of MemoryCare and the services they provide here.

 

 

There are SO many more wonderful free and low cost community programs dedicated to providing resources, training, education, mediation and more to young girls, women, mothers, elderly and families. Please take a look at the programs we help fund here in Asheville and Buncombe County. If you don’t find what you’re looking for there or need immediate support, dial 2-1-1 to speak with someone who is able to provide resources, answer questions and connect you to resources in our community. We’re available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. You can also visit nc211/org. 

 

 

If these programs aren’t directly relevant to you, it’s still important to be aware of them to share with friends, family and community members. You may also consider volunteering to support one of these organizations. We have ongoing volunteer opportunities with our community partners on the Hands On Asheville Buncombe website. Your donations also directly support our community partners. Donate here today. Remember, together, we are stronger. United We Win.