At Eagle Rock Bank, we take great pride in our commitment to giving back to the community we call home. Each month, we shine a spotlight on a deserving local nonprofit in Rochester Magazine's "3 Ways You Can Help" series, showcasing their vital work and encouraging others to get involved. 

Written by Megan Malugani for Rochester Magazine 

3 ways you can help: 

For nearly five decades, the Women’s Shelter and Support Center has been a vital resource in the Rochester area, serving as a critical lifeline for those rebuilding their lives after experience abuse.

The organization’s roots were planted in 1976, when three domestic abuse survivors, along with individuals affiliated with the National Organization for Women, began coordinating safe houses for women experiencing abuse. As the years passed, the organization evolved to become an independent nonprofit, expanding its programs and impact.

Today, it operates across eight buildings and provides services to nearly 3,000 survivors annually throughout 10 counties in southeastern Minnesota. This includes satellite offices in Dodge and Fillmore counties. Services include shelter and housing, crisis intervention and advocacy, youth programs, community outreach and more.

An exciting new chapter is just around the corner for the organization, as construction is underway for a new emergency shelter. The new facility will nearly triple the organization’s current capacity and provide a trauma-informed, safe harbor for survivors. “We expect to make the transition to the new building during the last quarter of 2025. These are exciting times with a lot of good things on the horizon,” says Artyce Thomas executive director.

The new facility was designed with spaces to promote healing. Features include calm rooms, a fitness center, and a state-of-the-art child and youth enrichment center. The outdoor space includes a courtyard, pergola, playground, and basketball court. There will be a free clothing boutique onsite where survivors can shop for themselves and their families for free.

As the new facility opens in the organization’s 50th year – a testament to the vision of the dedicated individuals who first banded together – the core mission remains unwavering: ensuring survivors of domestic violence have a place to go when they need it most.

Here's how you can help the Women's Shelter

Volunteer. Support survivors with your time and skills. Opportunities include assisting with children’s program, special events, and hands-on support at the emergency shelter. Visit www.womens-shelter.org/volunteer for more info.

Donate. Help fund vital resources for survivors. If you’re interested in supporting the new facility or buying items for specific pods or rooms, contact Artyce Thomas or Barb Schramm at info@womens-shelter.org.

Advocate. Get educated and raise awareness of domestic violence by attending the organizations’ annual fundraiser, Transforming Lives, in October. Additionally, Women’s Shelter staff regularly lead small, interactive awareness events through the community that offer powerful insights into abusive relationships. Contact info@womens-shelter.org if you’re interested in hosting one of these events.

At a glance

Founded in 1976.

Focus. “Provide temporary shelter and services to people impacted by domestic violence, while transforming our communities through education and leadership for social change. Our goal is for people to live safely with freedom and dignity in our communities.”

House approximately 400-500 individuals annually. Average length of stay in emergency housing is 33 days.

Serves individuals from 10 Southeastern Minnesota counties.

womens-shelter.org, 507-292-6743 (business line), 507-285-1010 (crisis line), P.O. Box 457, Rochester, Minn. 55903