Claymates
While prevention is always the goal, Helpmate works with the community in Western North Carolina to provide safety, shelter and support to victims and survivors of intimate partner domestic violence.
Helpmate began as a task force of the Buncombe County Commission on the Status of Women in 1978. They have worked tirelessly since to support survivors and create systems to meet their needs as well as educate the community about healthy relationships.
In 1981, the emergency shelter program started with one small apartment, adding a second a year later. By 1985, Helpmate purchased a house, then replaced it with a larger home by 1990. In 2006, Helpmate launched a capital campaign to purchase their current emergency shelter, which houses 225 adult and child victims who are in imminent danger each year.
Now, with the belief in power of prevention, Helpmate works with organizations like Our Voice, Mountain Child Advocacy Center, Pisgah Legal Services, and a community-based task force to prevent domestic violence, sexual assault and child maltreatment. The goal is to teach residents of Buncombe County how to form healthy relationships, resolve conflicts without violence, and respect boundaries so that we end the cycle of domestic violence.
“Helpmate is thrilled to join East Fork Pottery as a Community Partner for the third quarter. East Fork exemplifies exceptional community responsibility, and we are eager to seize this opportunity to increase awareness of the vital services that exist for survivors in our community. A broader understanding of our mission will also allow us to continue raising the funds needed to provide free and comprehensive services.” -The Helpmate Team
Looking to get involved? Here are a few ways to help:
- Volunteer
- Purchase items from Helpmate's Walmart Registry
- Donate old cell phones and chargers
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Host a third-party event to raise funds
