Calvary Women's Services

Every five days a woman who was homeless moves from Calvary into her own home. Your support provides the safe home, education and support that make it possible.

How do you help people in my community?

Calvary Women's Services is a local organization, serving women who are homeless in Washington, DC. Each year, we give 150 women a safe place where they can accomplish their goals to end their homelessness and prepare for healthy, independent lives. We are strongly connected to our community, as we rely on local businesses, religious groups, civic organizations and, of course, individuals for the volunteer and financial support that make our services possible.

Calvary assists women who face a variety of challenges. Women at our programs may struggle with mental illness, addictions, chronic health problems, histories of abuse and trauma, lack of education, and underemployment. They come from many different socio-economic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. However you define “community,” Calvary probably assists women from yours.

Why do you need my support?

As homelessness in DC continues to grow, more women need our services now than ever before. Your investment will ensure we can continue to offer the same effective, high-quality programs that we have for nearly 30 years.

A gift to Calvary is an investment in women’s futures. To provide one woman a night of safe housing, nutritious meals and comprehensive services costs only $50. Your support will make a significant difference in the lives of the women at Calvary.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

Calvary Women's Services has been a part of the Washington, DC community since 1983. During that time we have consistently used strategic planning, annual financial audits, and program evaluations to ensure the quality of our programs and expand our services to meet growing needs in the community. Calvary’s active and involved Board of Directors oversee our financial and programmatic activities, ensuring excellence in our services while continuing the development and growth of programs

We work to keep overhead costs– including management and fundraising – for the organization low. This is possible in part because of our strong volunteer program. Through Calvary’s effective use of volunteers, thousands of hours of service are donated each year. Over 400 people volunteered with us in 2011, donating time and services at a total value of over $200,000.

In the past several years, Calvary has been recognized for our excellence by organizations including: The Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington, the Washington Area Women’s Foundation’s Leadership Award, the Junior League of Washington’s Community Partner of the Year, and The Washingtonian list of 20 local charities “worthy of the support and investment of Washingtonians.”

Can I Volunteer? How?

Calvary has over 300 dedicated volunteers who provide significant value to our daily operations. Volunteers supervise our programs overnight, support our Life Skills Educational Program by leading health and skills-building classes, and provide meals three nights per week. Professional services are offered by volunteers pro bono. For more information about volunteering at Calvary, please visit our website.