The Kernersville Foundation provided a lead gift to an emergency campaign of Next Step Ministries. The $5,000 pledge will match the first $5,000 of community contributions to help restore the Safe House after and plumbing issue damaged several floors of the house. Alexandria Hicks, Executive Director of Next Step Ministries said, “thanks to the generosity of the Kernersville Foundation, every donation will now have twice the impact.”
The Kernersville Foundation has pledged to match every dollar donated to the Safe House Recovery Fund, up to $5,000, helping accelerate repairs and ensure survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault continue to have access to safe shelter and support.
The flooding, caused by a plumbing incident in an upstairs restroom, resulted in extensive water damage throughout the Safe House. The home requires plumbing repairs, replacement of damaged flooring, and reconstruction of walls and ceilings. Essential household items and supplies must also be replaced before survivors can safely return. Altogether, Next Step Ministries faces approximately $30,000 in remaining repair and recovery costs to fully restore the Safe House and resume normal operations.
While the Safe House is temporarily closed for repairs, Next Step Ministries continues to provide crisis intervention, advocacy, court accompaniment, and resource referrals. Survivors needing emergency shelter are being assisted through hotel placements and partnerships with neighboring agencies. The organization hopes to reopen the Safe House by mid-July.
"This matching gift gives our community an incredible opportunity to make an even greater impact," said Alexandria Hicks, Executive Director of Next Step Ministries. "Every dollar up to $5,000 will be doubled, helping us restore a place of safety, healing, and hope for survivors and their children."
A $25 donation becomes $50, and a $100 gift becomes $200, allowing supporters to stretch their generosity while helping the organization recover more quickly.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Next Step Ministries relies on the generosity of the community to continue serving survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. All donations to the Safe House Recovery Fund are tax-deductible.Community members and businesses can participate by making a donation to the Safe House Recovery Fund through www.nextstepdv.org and selecting the Safe House Recovery designation to ensure their gift is matched.
Together, we can restore a safe place where survivors can begin their journey toward healing and independence.