Reflecting on 2024
A Year of Growth, Advocacy, and Resilience at Bradley Angle
As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the progress, partnerships, and poignant stories that have shaped our work at Bradley Angle in 2024. From amplifying the voices of survivors to expanding resources and programs, your unwavering support has made a significant impact. Here are some highlights from this year:
January: A New Year of Dedication
In 2023, Bradley Angle served 630 survivors, a 4% increase from the previous year, offering 38,977 nights of safe shelter and providing 4,355 services to the community. Our food bank was accessed 587 times, and we maintained our commitment to allocating $0.83 of every dollar directly to programs and participants. These efforts reflect 48 years of transformative work for survivors of domestic violence.
February: Weathering the Ice Storm
In February, our Emergency Shelter faced significant challenges, including water damage from a burst pipe caused by an ice storm. Despite these hardships, our dedicated staff worked around the clock to keep survivors safe and the shelter operational. Community support was vital during this time, and we continue to seek assistance to cover ongoing expenses for culturally specific toiletries, fresh linens, and other essentials.
March: Women's History Month and Trans Day of Visibility
March highlighted the intersection of domestic violence and marginalized identities. Up to half of transgender individuals experience domestic violence in their lifetimes, yet barriers to care often persist. Bradley Angle’s culturally responsive services remain a vital lifeline for survivors referred by local partner agencies, ensuring affirming, empathetic support tailored to their unique experiences.
April: Still Not Asking for it
The month featured Anatomy Tattoo Flash Fundraiser, Still Not Asking For It, held on April 6. Proceeds from tattoos and raffle prizes supported Bradley Angle's programs.
June: Honoring Juneteenth
This year’s Juneteenth celebrations underscored the strength of the Black community and the importance of amplifying Black voices. Reflections from Bradley Angle staff, like Tiffany and LaKieva, celebrated the holiday’s history while affirming our commitment to supporting BIPOC survivors.
July: Drag Queen Painting Night
A big shout out to our community partners, Bottle & Bottega, for hosting such fun events to raise money for Bradley Angle’s programs. If you missed the Drag Queen Painting Event, stay tuned for more events in 2025!
August: Expanding Financial Support for Survivors
Domestic violence survivors in Oregon can now access up to $3,200 through the Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS) program—a much-needed increase from the $1,200 available since 1996. These funds can help cover rent, utilities, security equipment, and more, alleviating financial abuse and enabling survivors to rebuild their lives.
October: Breaking Cycles of Violence
At the 2024 National Training Institute, Margot joined a panel on “Breaking Cycles of Violence through Survivor-Centered Diversion,” exploring innovative ways to support criminalized survivors, particularly women of color. Collaborations like these demonstrate our commitment to addressing systemic inequities and fostering holistic, survivor-centered solutions.
November: Proclamation Event and Advocacy
Tiffany, our Program and Services Director, spoke at the DVAM proclamation event with Multnomah County’s District Attorney’s Office and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Coordination Office. This collaborative effort emphasized the importance of community partnerships in protecting survivors and advancing systemic change.
Community Spotlight: Our incredible partners at Scottie’s Pizza hosted a Giving Tree initiative to support families in our programs, spreading holiday cheer and essential resources to those in need. During November and December, Solabee Flowers generously created a community bouquet initiative and contributed other thoughtful donations to support our work.
December: Season of Sharing
We were honored to be featured in The Oregonian’s 2024 Season of Sharing campaign, spotlighting Goblynx’s inspiring journey from homelessness to thriving as a student at Portland Community College through our Marsha’s Folx program. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of culturally specific, affirming support and your generous contributions.
We also hosted our very first Icons & Activists Trivia Night on December 8 at The Sports Bra, where community members competed in trivia to raise funds for Bradley Angle's services. This event brought people together to test their knowledge while making an impact. The event was such a success, it will become a regular event. Stay tuned for 2025 dates!
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to support survivors of domestic violence, particularly those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities who are disproportionately impacted. The temporary increase in TA-DVS funding through June 2025, coupled with ongoing advocacy for culturally relevant resources, demonstrates the power of collective action in driving meaningful change.
We believe in the resilience and potential of every survivor. As a community, we are breaking cycles of violence and building a future of empowerment and free from violence.
Resources:
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788
Call to Safety (local 24/7 crisis line): 503-235-5333
The Gateway Center: 503-988-6400
