Many Programs at Women's Resource Center to Be Cut

Hard times mean fewer resources for the Women's Resource Center in Norman. While some of the center's operations will remain, the main office will close, and its counseling, education and prevention programs will disappear, along with six employees.

Sunday, December 20th 2009, 7:10 pm

By: News 9


By Jon Jordan, NEWS 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- Hard times mean fewer resources for the Women's Resource Center in Norman.

These days there are many calls with questions about the center's future. While some of the center's operations will remain, the main office will close, and its counseling, education and prevention programs will disappear, along with six employees.

For more than 30 years the Women's Resource Center has provided support for women who have no support and protection for those who are endangered.

"There needs to be a place for women to go when they're abused, you know, sexually abused, or children, and a place where they can go where they can't be found. You know, because I was a victim of abuse many years ago, and there wasn't a place to go," said Cindy Hargrove, a supporter of the women's Resource Center.

Recently the Women's Resource Center has seen its revenue stream dry up. Funding sources that once provided a lot are providing less this year, which included United Way. Not so long ago, when times were better, the United Way of Norman earmarked up to $110,000 per year for the center.

"We did decrease their funding this past cycle, down by 44 percent, so that funding level decreased to just over $61,000. It was a significant decrease," said Kristin Collins with United Way of Norman.

Many supporters are hoping people come together and give to keep the center open. There could be more funds from the United Way next year, but next year seems a long way off.

The main office of the Women's Resource Center is scheduled to close on January 31. The Rape Crisis Center and the Shelter for Victims of Family Violence will remain open.

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