Cocoon gets grant to help survivors of abuse with short-term assistance for rental housing

The Cocoon, Wood County’s only comprehensive domestic and sexual violence advocacy center and emergency shelter, is among 62 nonprofit organizations in Northwest Ohio selected to receive funding from the John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation.

As a young and growing organization, the John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation’s mission is to invest in initiatives that strengthen families and their communities to honor the legacy of generosity and community service of their founder, John Henry Eldred Jr.

This year’s grantees are a diverse group of organizations who work to support food security, housing stability, and youth education in the Greater Toledo Area.

Many barriers exist for survivors leaving abusive relationships including lack of housing options, safety concerns, and financial barriers which can be a result of financial abuse at the hands of their partner. Being able to secure safe, affordable, long-term housing independent from their abuser is critical for survivors and their families to be able to rebuild their lives.

With support from the John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation, survivors of domestic and sexual violence who have an active working relationship with a Cocoon advocate will be able to request short-term rental assistance to support their long-term housing plan. Funds for rental assistance are awarded based on financial need following an assessment and creation of a sustainable financial plan with the Cocoon’s housing specialist.

For more information about the Cocoon, visit thecocoon.org or call 419-373-1730.