In 2025, domestic violence organizations are facing significant funding challenges due to uncertainties surrounding federal grant freezes and substantial cuts to domestic violence funding. The D.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that nearly $40 million in support services for survivors—encompassing housing, legal representation, and mental health care, among other supports—are at risk as these funding freezes are litigated and cuts begin to take effect.  

Government funding constitutes nearly 85% of My Sister's Place’s operating budget. While MSP maintains operating reserves and is financially solvent to meet basic expenses and sustain our shelters (which we own) during funding freezes, the uncertainty surrounding federal support for domestic violence organizations poses a serious threat to our broader programs. An enforced, prolonged freeze on government funding could force MSP to scale down our transitional housing services by the end of the year, turning away scores of clients from our housing, cash transfer, and wrap-around services. 

Additional support from community members like you is more crucial than ever. By stepping in to address these funding gaps, you can play a pivotal role in ensuring that vital resources remain available for organizations like MSP providing essential services in our communities. 

Your support keeps MSP’s doors open, to ensure mothers like Mara have a second chance:

Mara and her children became homeless during the COVID Pandemic due to domestic violence, and entered MSP’s care in May 2023. Her MSP Advocate connected her to community resources related to employment, education, income, and access to childcare.

With the assistance and support of MSP, Mara set goals for obtaining employment and participated in an 8-month police academy program through a local community college. She graduated in October and was hired as a police officer with a local police department. Best of all, Mara and her children recently transitioned into an apartment of their own, where they now live safely and independently. 

As we look ahead to 2025 with a vision to grow our programs while keeping a watchful eye on the broader threats to service agencies, we are more grateful than ever for our MSP community. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.  

The generosity of our many community partners warmed our hearts this month:  

Join them through organizing a drive of your own or giving directly through our Wishlist today.

Contact us at development@mysistersplacedc.org with any questions.