With American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding administered through PCF, CASA can now help even more domestic violence survivors gain back their safety and their confidence, and get on their feet.
Based in South Pinellas County, Community Action Stops Abuse, otherwise known as CASA, provides a safe haven for survivors of domestic violence and their children, offering immediate shelter, security, and basic needs. Pinellas Community Foundation has had the joy of partnering with CASA CEO, Lariana Forsythe, as she has brought financial resurgence to CASA since her arrival.
“PCF has been a really great partner in understanding the work we do” said Lariana.
“We would go to Pinellas Community Foundation with projects that were not necessarily attractive to other funders, but PCF would understand ‘it may not be flashy, but it’s needed for the comprehensive project.’”
CASA Pinellas is one of Florida’s 41 certified domestic violence centers, providing safety and sanctuary to survivors and their children since 1977.
Housing People Who Can’t Go Back
Additionally, CASA is implementing a coexisting office for Housing Advocates and Case Managers that will be working closely with clients through their issues as well as housing for an Injunction For Protection (IFP) Attorney to assist with restraining orders.
“PCF helped us prime the property into being a trauma-informed space. It has to be the right setting for survivors to receive services, and they really understood that. Their leadership, Duggan Cooley, he’s very in-tune and receptive to what the needs of the community are,” Lauriana went on to mention.
The CASA and the Pinellas Community Foundation collaboration, under symbolizes a resounding commitment to rebuilding lives, transforming spaces, and fostering hope. CASA’s unwavering dedication to advocating for survivor rights, providing comprehensive support, transitional housing, and fostering an environment of empowerment, reflects a commitment to rebuilding lives shattered by domestic violence.
Powering Positive Change with ARPA
Five Years Faster represents a vibrant partnership bringing together the Pinellas Community Foundation, local county governments in Pinellas, and the municipalities of St. Petersburg & Clearwater. This innovative initiative is dedicated to expediting the recovery of our communities post-pandemic, striving to achieve progress that would typically take years in mere moments.
Fueled by the American Rescue Plan Act ratified in 2021, this initiative offer vital financial support for capital needs, social services, and support centers. This empowers nonprofits to revamp facilities, extend services, and propel community advancement beyond anticipated levels. Encompassing areas spanning infrastructure to mental health, our close collaboration with esteemed local nonprofits guarantees resource optimization for maximum effectiveness.
Click here to learn more about Five Years Faster and the lives that it’s impacting.
to learn more about 5 Years Faster and Pinellas Community Foundation.
Follow us for the latest updates.