Assemblymember Phil Steck (D-Colonie) announced today that he secured $12,500 in state aid for the YWCA of Schenectady. The organization offers the only licensed domestic violence shelter in Schenectady County that gives victims and their families a safe place to stay. Among the many other programs that are offered, there is also a 24-hour hotline for domestic violence victims. The funding will be used to support the organization’s efforts to provide assistance to victims of domestic violence and ensure they can recover and move forward. The national organization, YWCA USA, is the oldest and largest women’s membership organization.

“The YWCA is a pillar of our Schenectady community and has proved to be a critical resource for countless people in need,” said Assemblymember Steck. “It’s so important to support these organizations that are making such a difference in the lives of so many of our friends and neighbors.”

The YWCA provides numerous domestic violence services, including their housing program which provides safe housing and support services for homeless and/or low-income women.

“The state funds secured by Assemblymember Steck are crucial in meeting the many needs of the Domestic Violence victims whom the YWCA of Schenectady serves, such as advocacy, counseling, economic empowerment, housing, and connections to community resources,” said Kim Siciliano, Executive Director of the YWCA.

For more information on the Schenectady YWCA, visit their website at ywca-northeasternny.org/about. Additionally, victims of domestic violence can contact their 24-hour emergency hotline at 518-374-3386.