The Residence Program provides safe, affordable housing for low to moderate income women who are experiencing significant barriers to obtaining permanent housing for themselves and their children.

We currently have 27 rooms for women who do not have children with them, and 8 rooms for mothers with up to two children - girls through age 15 and boys through age 8 - in our transitional program.  Residents pay average rents of $55 a week.  They must work, attend classes or volunteer for a substantial period of time each week as well.

Many of the residents come from less than ideal situations and backgrounds including instances of domestic violence, sexual violence, rape, incest, and childhood abuse and neglect.  Some have struggled to overcome alcohol or drug addiction, mental health and emotional issues, eating disorders and other debilitating conditions.  Single mothers with young children often face the challenge of parenting alone with little support from anyone else.  Many of the women also suffer from a deep-seated lack of self-esteem.

Our program offers hope and a renewed sense of purpose and direction as we gently nudge our residents toward the difficult business of taking control of their lives.  We help them plan the steps that will empower them to get their lives on an even keel emotionally and financially, and eventually to succeed in obtaining (and maintaining) permanent housing.

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In addition to transitional housing, the Residence Program now has 3 rooms set aside for Lancaster County mothers with up to three children who need emergency housing.  Mothers can stay free of charge for a maximum of 90 days while searching for permanent housing.

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For further information e-mail Residence Director Mary Commero or give call her a call at 393-1735 ext. 222, and see the YWCA Residence Program brochure.