For more than 45 years, Tri-Valley Haven (TVH) has operated the only rape crisis center and confidential domestic violence shelter in the Tri-Valley, filling a critical gap in services. The Livermore-based nonprofit provides a safe refuge and support system for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and homelessness as well as those impacted by poverty. Through programs that foster healing, housing stability, and economic independence, Tri-Valley Haven helps survivors move from crisis to confidence. Some people may be surprised to learn the comprehensive scope of these Tri-Valley Haven's services.

"We're not just a shelter, we're a full-service safety net for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, and poverty," says Executive Director Christine Dillman. "In addition to emergency shelters, we provide rape crisis response, legal advocacy, counseling, housing support, food and clothing assistance, prevention education, and more, all free of charge. No one is turned away from Tri-Valley Haven for the inability to pay. We also operate the only shelters that accept teenage boys as part of families in the Tri-Valley area. It is critical that when a woman flees domestic abuse, she is able to bring her teenage son with her to safety."

In 2022, TVH upgraded its existing food pantry by moving to a larger space and changing its model. Unlike traditional food pantries, the Client Choice Food Pantry "empowers clients to select the items that best meet their cultural and dietary needs, preserving dignity while promoting nutrition." The nonprofit serves more than 6,000 Tri-Valley residents each year at the food pantry, while its 24-hour crisis hotline receives over 3,000 calls annually.

The nonprofit's inadequate domestic violence shelter has been demolished. As clients stay in temporary quarters, TVH's Shelter Rebuild Capital Campaign is in its last stage. Because the construction budget came in 14% higher than the quote received a year ago, TVH supporters are urgently seeking roughly $1 million in final donations to build a new shelter that will increase capacity by 50% and include special areas for children. If the goal is met, the new facility is expected to be ready by the summer of 2026. 

"We need the community's support, both financially and through awareness, to complete this vital project and ensure that no one in our region has to choose between staying in danger or being homeless," Dillman says.

On Tuesday, July 23, TVH will have a Backpack Giveaway and distribute free, fully stocked backpacks to local children in need. Last year, Tri-Valley Haven served over 900 Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin students. Readers can support the program by making an online donation at https://trivalleyhaven.arreva.online/donate-now or by donating pre-filled backpacks through July 18 at Tri-Valley Haven's Community Building at 3663 Pacific Avenue in Livermore.
 
TVH's annual Pace for Peace 5K/10K Walk-Run and 1K Kids' Dash will start at 8 am on Saturday, October 4, at the nonprofit's Community Building. The family-friendly event raises awareness and funds for survivors of domestic violence. In addition to the capital campaign and upcoming events, there are many ways to aid TVH. They include hosting a drive for essential items such as food, toiletries, and school supplies; becoming a sponsor; a monthly or one-time donor; or a volunteer. More than 100 volunteers contribute to the nonprofit on a regular basis.

"While our community may seem affluent from the outside, there are many individuals and families facing crisis," notes Dillman. Tri-Valley Haven is here to ensure no one has to face it alone. We're so lucky to be a part of a community that cares. Tri-Valley Haven is rooted in the community and energized by our community. Whether you need help or want to help, there's a place for you at Tri-Valley Haven. Together, we are building a safer, more compassionate Tri-Valley."

For more information about Tri-Valley Haven, please visit trivalleyhaven.org.

To learn more about Tri-Valley Haven's Shelter Rebuild, please visit trivalleyhaven.org/domestic-violence-shelter-rebuild or contact Tri-Valley Haven's Executive Director, Christine Dillman, at Christine@trivalleyhaven.org or (925) 667-2707.

Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash