Monday was the first day of school in DC, and it should have been a day full of children packing backpacks, putting on new shoes, and heading out the door excited about the promise of a fresh start and a new year. Unfortunately, COVID-19 means most students will start the school year virtually, at a desk or table in their home.

On this unusual first week of school, we want to thank our community for supporting DASH. Because of you, many children will start their first week of virtual learning in a safe place to call home. Survivors and their families have a roof over their heads and a secure place to learn, play, and sleep, thanks to your support of our safe housing programs.

Survivors, and their families, should never have to choose between living with abuse and becoming homeless. Thanks to you, they don’t have to. We wish them, and all of you, a happy and safe first day of school.

Now, let’s crack open some books!