Grants Pass, OR — The Women’s Crisis Support Team (WCST) has been awarded a $1,000 Neighborhood Grant from The Starbucks Foundation, recognizing the organization’s continued efforts to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence throughout Josephine County. The grant was made possible through the nomination of a local Starbucks employee partner who advocated for WCST’s mission and impact.
The Neighborhood Grants program allows Starbucks employees to nominate nonprofit organizations making a meaningful difference in their communities. This year, more than 56,000 nominations were submitted across the United States and Canada, with only 3,200 nonprofits selected for funding.
“We are deeply grateful to the Starbucks partner who saw value in our mission and to The Starbucks Foundation for recognizing the importance of this work,” said Ray Dinkins, Executive Director of WCST. “This funding helps us continue to provide emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis response, and advocacy services for survivors working to reclaim safety and stability in their lives.”
Founded in 1977, WCST has served as Josephine County’s primary provider of domestic and sexual violence advocacy services for nearly five decades. The organization offers confidential support, emergency shelter, legal and medical advocacy, housing assistance, prevention education, and outreach to rural areas. WCST also partners with local schools, law enforcement agencies, and community groups to create a safer and more connected region.
The $1,000 Neighborhood Grant will directly support WCST’s round-the-clock crisis response services and emergency shelter programs, ensuring that survivors fleeing abusive situations have immediate access to safety, resources, and hope.
“Being recognized by our neighbors—by someone who works just down the street at Starbucks—makes this award especially meaningful,” Dinkins added. “It reminds us that community support takes many forms, and that even a small investment can change someone’s life.”
About WCST:
The Women’s Crisis Support Team empowers individuals and communities to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence through survivor-centered advocacy, education, and prevention. WCST serves all survivors—regardless of gender, background, or circumstance—and is proud to work with both urban and rural populations across Josephine County. To learn more about WCST’s programs or to get involved, visit www.wcstjoco.org.