MONTEREY COUNTY — YWCA Monterey County is expanding its services by opening its first transitional housing location in South Monterey County for women and families impacted by domestic violence.
The confidential site — planned to open the week of Nov. 24 — will include 10 beds and one crib, offering a safer and more accessible option for survivors who cannot travel to Salinas.
“We are extremely excited to be opening this new transitional shelter in South County,” said Jessica Macias, CEO of YWCA Monterey County. “We do not disclose the location of any of our shelters. We are highly confidential. But we do hope to open our doors by the end of this month.”
The new three-bedroom transitional housing facility was funded in part by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development dollars, though the organization is still seeking additional grants to fully support ongoing operations.
Macias said transportation barriers and community feedback played a major role in the decision to expand south.
“We had been thinking about it, as well as the community has voiced that, unfortunately, due to transportation they would not drive into Salinas if they were out in our rural towns,” she said. “And so because of that, we wanted to find a way to bring the shelter to South County for that reason that we’re not able to capture some of the folks who need help because they can’t get to our office in Salinas.”
The YWCA also provides monthly support at the King City Family Justice Center, and the new site will allow the organization to serve those residents more consistently.
“We also work closely with the Family Justice Center, and we know that the need is there for housing services,” Macias said. “Now, we’ll be closer in the area to be able to provide those supportive services that our rural towns need.”
Macias emphasized that the YWCA’s mission remains central to the expansion.
“Our commitment is to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all,” she said. “Every day, survivors turn to the YWCA for safety, healing and empowerment on their journey to rebuild their lives, to live free of domestic abuse, or of violent crime in general.”
The organization’s services are extensive, with Macias noting: “At the YWCA, we help survivors of domestic violence by offering all the support you would need to start your life over. We assist with paperwork, groceries, transportation, basic needs, baby care needs, mental health services, long-term housing plans and support, and so much more.”
This year alone, the YWCA has supported more than 1,700 crisis calls, 2,100 shelter nights and 1,400 therapy sessions — all through its 24/7 crisis line, the only domestic violence hotline in Monterey County.
The South County shelter will mirror the support available at its existing programs.
“We are really excited to be able to open our doors and continue to offer all the same services that we offer through our other programs, housing and shelter,” Macias said. “We will be offering them in South County as well.”
She added that the expansion would not be possible without community backing.
“This couldn’t happen without our partners, our supporters, our community members who continue to believe in our mission,” she said. “Together, we are creating pathways to safety, healing and hope, one family at a time.”
Macias urged anyone in need — or anyone concerned for a loved one — to reach out.
“Definitely don’t be afraid [to call],” she said. “Even if it’s a loved one that you’re concerned about and you want more information … please call and find out if they qualify for our services. If they need help, encourage them to call.”
“One thing I’ve learned in my three months working here is that folks are just really nervous to call and scared,” she added. “We hold dearly our shelters and [provide] as much confidentiality as we can to help folks feel safer. … We’re excited to open this new shelter and continue that work.”
YWCA Monterey County operates the county’s only 24-hour domestic violence crisis line at 831-372-6300 or 831-757-1001. More information is available at the organization’s website ywcamc.org.
