The Frist Foundation Invests $3 Million to Strengthen Safety for Survivors at YWCA’s Weaver Domestic Violence Center
Weaver Domestic Violence Center Building, Nanny’s Playground and Courtyard serves hundreds of women and children survivors of domestic abuse every year. The 25-year old emergency shelter is undergoing a $7.9 million renovation.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Dec. 4, 2024) – YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee is proud to announce a transformative $3 million gift from The Frist Foundation to support the ongoing renovation of the Weaver Domestic Violence Center. This extraordinary grant will fund the completion of the project, including the installation of a state-of-the-art security system to ensure the safety of the hundreds of women and children who seek refuge at Weaver every year.
The Weaver Domestic Violence Center, a 22,000-square-foot emergency shelter for domestic violence survivors, has been a critical lifeline since it opened in 2000. While the facility has undergone renovations to expand capacity and improve its infrastructure, this gift will allow YWCA to address critical unmet needs, including upgrading its aging security system, installing an upgraded power system, completely renovating the Center’s two commercial kitchens, and enhancing the overall safety and accessibility of the campus.
“This generous gift from The Frist Foundation represents a pivotal moment in our efforts to create a safe, welcoming, and modern environment for survivors of domestic violence,” said Sharon K. Roberson, President and CEO of YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee. “The Foundation’s support not only helps us address immediate needs but also sends a powerful message that our community is united in the fight to protect women and children from abuse. We are deeply grateful for Frist’s partnership.”
With this grant, Weaver will be equipped with a new integrated security system featuring high-definition cameras, enhanced access controls, and a central operations center. This critical investment ensures the safety and privacy of clients and staff while providing peace of mind to survivors as they rebuild their lives.
“The Weaver Domestic Violence Center is a beacon of hope for women and children fleeing violence, and we are proud to support YWCA in ensuring that every person who comes through its doors feels safe and protected,” said Corinne Bergeron, CEO, The Frist Foundation.
Since opening, Weaver has served as the most comprehensive program for victims of domestic violence in Tennessee, providing more than 400 women and children with a safe haven each year and answering nearly 5,000 crisis calls annually. This renovation represents a vital step forward in meeting the increasing demand for services while creating a secure and healing environment for survivors.
The Weaver Center renovations began in February of 2023, with funding coming from federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated by Metro Nashville Council. Private foundation and grants were also made to support the complete renovation of the 25-year-old facility, and the total investment in the project is $7.9 million.
The YWCA invites the community to join this effort by contributing to the Weaver Center. For more information on how to support YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all, please visit the YWCA website.
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ABOUT YWCA NASHVILLE & MIDDLE TENNESSEE:
For over 125 years, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has helped women, girls, and families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee build safer, more self-sufficient lives. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Programs include Domestic Violence Services, Girls Inc. at YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, AMEND Together, Dress for Success Nashville, Family Learning Center & Career Services, and Social Justice & Advocacy. For more information, visit https://ywcanashville.com, follow us on twitter @YWCANashville and find us on Facebook facebook.com/YWCANashville.
About The Frist Foundation:
For over 40 years, The Frist Foundation has been dedicated to sustaining and improving the quality of life in Nashville and the broader Middle Tennessee community by investing in nonprofit organizations. The Frist Foundation seeks to build a stronger Nashville by supporting agencies that address broad community challenges including housing, food insecurity, and access to childcare, as well as organizations leading collaborative community efforts.
Media Contact:
Michelle Mowery Johnson | 615-424-0544 | michelle.moweryjohnson@ywcanashville.com