Erie DAWN provides the following services for women in need:

Advocacy

Erie DAWN not only speaks on behalf of women's economic and legal benefits for which they are entitled, but also teaches them the knowledge and skills to defend their personal rights. This ability to advocate provides women the opportunity to make informed decisions in order to reach economic, social, and emotional stability.

Housing

Erie DAWN provides safe, affordable transitional housing for impoverished single women with or without children. DAWN's unique partnership with local landlords and realtors provides program participants with rental rates 40%-50% below fair market value. Women participants, who must be employed, are able to participate in the housing program for up to two years.

Support Services

Erie DAWN program participants work individually with a case manager and some with an intensive case manager who is specialized in counseling for drug/alcohol and mental illnesses. The case managers help program participants find the best community resources for achieving self-sufficiency. Examples of services include budgeting to become debt free and financially confident, and gaining the knowledge to overcome physical and mental abuse. The women also learn personal care and professional skills.

A service feature is Family Night where women have monthly budget counseling in their homes. The older children observe alongside their mothers and the case manager how the family income is to be distributed over the month. These older children begin learning budgeting skills, and too, possible ways to earn income for the family. A grant from Marquette Savings Bank matches any deposit they make into their own personal savings account at Marquette. Younger children in the family work with an adult volunteer in the family's kitchen to prepare a nutritious meal for all to enjoy after the budget session is complete.


Mentoring

Erie DAWN mentors serve as friends and role models in a one-on-one environment. Trained mentors assist in stress management, share parenting and life skills' knowledge and give insights into home maintenance. Both program graduates and interested volunteers may prepare to be mentors. Their encouragement and support are vital to a client's growth. Want to be a mentor?

Follow-Up Support

Upon completing an individualized goal plan and securing permanent housing, a woman becomes eligible for follow-up support for at least six months. A continued relationship with her mentor, invitations to DAWN's social functions, emergency services and first-time home ownership counseling are available.

Wheels to Work

With the help of individual donors, qualified women may apply for a donated road-worthy car in order to meet the obligations of employment. Once a vehicle is donated, a woman meeting need-based requirements will be placed on the waiting list. For more information click here.