Programs

Helpmate Statistical Information
(Fiscal Year 2010-2011)

Total Clients served: 1,938

Total Number of Person's Sheltered: 184 (112 Women and 72 Children)

Nights of Emergency Shelter Provided to Clients: 5,671

Crisis Calls: 835

Counseling appointments:761

Court Advocacy Contacts: 4,208

Helpmate, Inc. began as a volunteer task force of the Buncombe County Commission on the Status of Women in 1978. A survey conducted by the task force concluded that at the time over 7,500 women were being battered in Buncombe County each year. The agency was funded for one year by the North Carolina Council on the Status of Women, and subsequent funding became available from Buncombe County in June of 1980.

Helpmate adopted its mission during this process, and continues today as "a domestic violence agency working with our community to eliminate abuse and fear."

In our years of service to the community, Helpmate has offered a variety of programs that focus on empowering victims of domestic violence. Understanding that each victim has a right to vision and shape his/ her own recovery, Helpmate's services are designed to meet the range of experiences of those we serve. Through each of the programs offered at Helpmate, clients are encouraged to design safety plans that fit their unique circumstances, and to recognize that they are the experts of their own situations of abuse.

24-Hour Hotline

7 days a week, and in collaboration with United Way's 2-1-1 call service, victims of domestic violence can reach a dedicated line answered by Helpmate's Crisis Stabilization Program staff, trained volunteers and Helpmate advocates.

Individual Counseling

Victims of domestic violence receive free, confidential counseling from a team of licensed and license-eligible staff, volunteers, and interns trained to honor the unique situation of each individual client.

We believe that it is the obligation of our local and global community to eradicate violence by challenging a culture that values power and control.

Court Advocacy

Helpmate's trained Court Advocates and volunteers assist victims who pursue legal remedies to domestic violence in both civil and criminal court systems. Clients establish plans for personal safety, gain an understanding of their legal rights, and receive assistance navigating the court process.

Emergency Shelter

More than just a "safe house" from abuse, Helpmate's emergency shelter offers around the clock case management, basic needs support, and counseling from a caring staff.

50% OF ALL HOMELESS WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN U.S. ARE FLEEING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Group Counseling

A variety of groups help meet the needs of victims and survivors at various stages of recovery, whether they are currently in a situation of abuse, or have established a safe and peaceful home.

Professional Education

Medical professionals, emergency first responders, mental health professionals, law enforcement officials, magistrates, educators, and other professionals learn to recognize the signs of abuse, receive advice on how to talk to victims, and learn how to make referrals to Helpmate's services.

Community Education

Education and awareness campaigns are essential to building communities that reject abuse. We provide outreach to leaders in faith communities and civic groups to build a coalition of support for victims.

Outreach to "at risk" groups

IN 95% OF THE INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENT CRIME CASES REPORTED, WOMEN ARE VICTIMS

Helpmate provides preventative domestic violence education to groups considered to be "at risk" of domestic violence, including but not limited to students, teens, the welfare-dependent, and persons with mental health and/ or substance abuse issues.