An empty building in Leon County could soon become a new refuge for domestic violence survivors, adding 20 beds in a region where advocates say shelter space is already limited.
Refuge House, a nonprofit that serves survivors of domestic violence, is proposing the “Dawn of Hope” center to expand both emergency housing and longer-term support services. The organization is seeking nearly $1 million in state funding to make it happen.
For many survivors, leaving an abusive situation is only the first step, Refuge House Executive Director Emily Mitchem said, describing how cycles of violence can repeat across generations…