First Step is announcing the opening of a shelter for men. The shelter is the first of its kind to open in the state of Ohio and one of only several in the United States. The men’s shelter, which is called The Bridge, is being opened to provide transitional housing for male victims of domestic violence and disenfranchised fathers. The agency is currently working in conjunction with the Fostoria Church of the Nazarene who is providing the actual facility. Since becoming available in early September 2007 the shelter has provided housing to two men and three children. Executive Director Terri Mercer stated that the decision to add this service is based on the increasing need among First Step’s client population and referrals from community partners. “There has not been, traditionally, a focus on programs for men in social services and particularly in the field of domestic violence” Mercer says “Our goal is to fill that gap in services.” First Step’s services to men will include everything the agency currently offers including counseling, educational classes, art therapy, advocacy, children’s programs, and now shelter. Community Resource Coordinator Esuga Abaya states that ultimately the provision of any services by First Step has the purpose of focusing on the long term effects of family conflict on children. “Children are our future, and to make the most fruitful investment in that future means to explore all possible means of creating an environment that is healthy, nurturing, and safe.” For more information on First Step services, or The Bridge, contact Esuga Abaya at eabaya@firststepweb.org or 419-435-7300.

 

Click here to read article in the Fostoria Review Times about The Bridge.

Click here to read article in the Toledo Blade about The Bridge.