The Central Ward Women’s Shelter

The Central Ward Women's Center has been in existence since June 27, 2019, with one vision in mind, to prevent homelessness iand hunger n our black and brown communities. It is also our mission to educate and employ keep families together as a unit and bring them to a state of self-sufficiency. Since the health crisis of 2020 hit our city, so many families have fallen on hard times for various reasons only to come face-to-face with another social calamity, homelessness! Our neighbors without addresses are susceptible to freezing cold temperatures and the harsh heat, not to mention hunger, the burden of disease, violence, sexual abuse and other health disparities experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. During homeless episodes, families have had to separate and live with other family members or friends and are sometimes compelled to carry the costs of the household as part of the agreement to stay! This is a very disheartening situation but what can you do? I became a product of the environment I lived in so I know from experience what it is to be homeless, to sleep outside, stripped of dignity and respect, hungry, unclean, having no access to health care, no support and left to feel unloved, unwanted and rejected. I had a feeling of hopelessness until I was introduced to The Learning Link in East Orange New Jersey.  I met some people there who were genuinely interested in what I had to say, how I felt, and my future. Before long, I began to believe in myself because of the kindnees shown to me, the love given to me, and the hope they instilled in me. They saw a potential in me that I never knew I had, and they didn’t stop tugging on it until I saw it too! This is the reason why I bought this Social Service Agency into existence. I want to be that beacon of light and share that hope with you as someone did for me.   Now is your chance to come in out of the cold! The Central Ward Women's Center is here to support you and your endeavors to keep your family near and safe while seeking employment to get back on your feet! That’s right, we’re here to help you regain your independence and we will support you every step of the way! We are a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and we offer on-site Case Management, childcare services, computer literacy courses, live employment opportunities with on the spot hiring and job placement as well as access to continued education. We are a resource initiative, and we have everything you need to become self-Sufficient and live a better quality of life, together under one roof.