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Bethlehem Lutheran Church members in partnership with other congregations and NOVACO provide transitional housing to victims of domestic abuse and their families along with supportive services in childcare, life skills, education and job training. Many in the congregation have donated time to help sponsor families this last year.
The recent history and current emphasis of NOVACO is on transitional housing and in particular Transitional Housing and services for Victims of Domestic Abuse. An arrangement has been formed with Bethany House to recommend clients-usually women and children who have suffered from domestic abuse--for the NOVACO transitional housing program. NOVACO, together with Bethany House, helps these families reshape their lives, increase their physical, emotional, and financial security, and move on to independent living. NOVACO employs a small staff and also uses the services and good will of congregations and organizations which "sponsor" NOVACO clients.
NOVACO began in 1992. Ten churches (including BLC) signed a Covenant promising financial and volunteer assistance. Today NOVACO member churches provide both financial support and volunteer help in renovating units, preparing them for occupancy, assisting families in moving, helping them acquire furnishings and other necessities, and providing other support for and with the client families. The goal is to get each family ready to "graduate" to independent living within two years. NOVACO has been largely successful in meeting this goal.
As a victim of domestic violence or abuse, usually at the hands of her spouse or other significant other, she has diminished self-esteem but a whole lot of hope and strength. And, she has a sponsor (an individual or group who has volunteered to help her with her daily living activities). Since Bethlehem is a sponsoring church, there have been several members who have taken on the special role of sponsors to a client and her family. The members of Bethlehem have really been making a difference in the life of a courageous woman and her family.
Do you feel God Calling you to assist in this mission? Please contact the BLC church office at
(703) 978-3131, or email to bethlehemlutheran@blclife.org for more information or to volunteer.
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