YWCA Charleston

YWCA Charleston is a Nonprofit Organization in Charleston, WV. It provides shelter and a range of services for homeless women and families, victims of domestic violence, and seniors experiencing abuse or homelessness. Programs include child development services for infants through school‑age children, a Family Abuse Program that offers emergency shelter and assistance, a Center for Senior Enrichment, a year‑round emergency shelter for women and families, a Strength, Resilience, Compassion initiative that promotes lifelong learning and cultural exchange, and a gently used clothing store supplying apparel for men, women and children. The organization also operates a 24‑hour domestic‑violence helpline and a chat service with a domestic‑violence advocate. YWCA Charleston’s mission emphasizes eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all, and it serves the greater Charleston area. Community members have given the nonprofit a rating of 3.70 stars based on 25 reviews.

Founded in 1912 by five women from the Baptist Temple, YWCA Charleston has more than a century of experience delivering programs that foster self‑sufficiency. Early efforts included secure lodging for young women, a cafeteria, and classes in physical fitness, sewing, cooking and religious education. Throughout the 1920s the organization expanded its headquarters, launched a recreational league for girls and a “Stay‑at‑Home Camp” that evolved into today’s childcare offerings. By the 1960s an exercise room was added, and the first official childcare program began in 1975. The YWCA has continually adapted to community needs, including supporting the World War II effort and adopting a policy condemning segregation in 1944.

The YWCA Charleston campus sits on Donnally Street, a short walk from the M L King Jr. Community Center and Elk River City Park, each about 0.1 mile away. It is also near the Mindari Eye Center and Saint Francis Hospital, both roughly 0.2 mile distant, and close to Washington Street East, a main thoroughfare.

With more than a hundred years of service, YWCA Charleston remains a cornerstone of support and empowerment for women, families and seniors throughout Charleston, WV.

Services:

• Child Development Services
• Community Enrichment Programs
• Community Involvement
• Domestic Violence Resources
• Early Childhood Education
• Empowerment
• Inclusive Environment
• Personalized Attention