02/16/11 The Heminger House Shelter for Women and Children, a safe home for victims of domestic violence, is again at capacity. Since its opening in September 2008, the shelter has been at capacity only twice before.
Director Annette Wojcik said she is asking the general public for help in assisting these people. The shelter provides shelter, food, emergency assistance and guidance in finding jobs and safe housing for all of its victims. Residents are also offered medical, mental and dental care as needed.
One resident is ready to be tested for her Licensed Practical Nursing certificate, however, needs the $300 entry fee. Another woman has been relocated to Marshall County because she and her child were severely abused and need the additional protection offered by distance. She, as well as others there, needs vehicles to maintain employment during her quest for a new start in life. Volunteer mechanics will make minor repairs to get used vehicles into working condition.
Volunteers (such as mechanics, dentists, counselors, doctors, etc.) are also needed by residents of the shelter. Anyone wishing to offer free services may call Wojcik at (574) 936-SAFE. Pick-up and delivery may also be arranged by calling that number. Mail is received at P.O. Box 4, Plymouth, IN, 46563.
In addition to cash gifts and gift cards, the shelter has the following needs: Postage stamps, writing journals, gasoline gift cards, office supplies, and fresh grocery needs such as milk, bread, lunch meat, Miracle Whip, fruits and juices, meats, cheese, and ice cream for the children. Healthy snacks for children are always appreciated and, with eight children in the home, are consumed quickly.
The shelter is also running low on socks and underwear of all sizes, winter gloves and hats, hair brushes, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, and personal hygiene products. Also, toilet paper, paper towels, dishwasher tablets or detergent, floor cleaner, 39-gallon trash bags, laundry soap and dryer sheets, over-the-counter pain medication and cold and flu medications (for adults and children). No alcohol-based or pseudo ephedrine products, please.
Used clothing is not accepted at the shelter. Instead, please take clothing to the Marshall County Neighborhood Center at 402 West Garro St.
The Plymouth Fire Department donated a Wii console two years ago but the shelter is now in need of a replacement power cord, a sensor strip, working games and discs. The residents would greatly appreciate an exercise game for the Wii.
The administration at the shelter is in need of a large paper shredder, laminating supplies, a digital camera and paper needs such as copy paper, file folders, scissors, etc.
Finally, guest speakers are available to discuss domestic violence and related topics at local organizations and businesses. Contact Wojcik at 574-936-7233 (SAFE).
