Each year in the City of Alexandria alone, hundreds of women and children are forced to flee their homes due to violence. They often must leave everything they own behind. Many of these women and children seek refuge in the battered women shelter, until they can find a place of their own to call home.

We are looking for individuals, and/or groups who are interested in sponsoring a family as they transition from the shelter into a new, violence-free home. Sponsors are asked to provide a "house-warming basket" complete with the items listed below. Items should be new, unless noted otherwise, and should be enough for a family of four. Please call 838-4911 when your basket is completed!

It is our hope that you or your group will find this to be a simple, yet meaningful, way to volunteer while making a big difference in the life of a strong and courageous family.

Necessary Basket Items

Laundry basket	Hangers	Laundry detergent
Dryer sheets	Broom & dust pan	Mop
Land-line Phone	Pillows	Pot holders
Dish towels	Bath towels & washcloths	Dish soap
Paper towels	Sponges	Household cleaners
Dish rack	Pots & Pans	Cooking utensils
Eating utensils	Glasses	Toaster
Can opener	Plates	Bowls

Optional Basket Items

Iron	Coffee maker	Vacuum (used okay)
Answering machine	Caller ID	Television (used ok)
VCR/DVD player (used ok)	Gift Certificates	Long Distance Phone Cards