Through educational outreach efforts in local schools to referrals and counseling services designed to empower survivors to lead self-sufficient, safe, successful lives, HOPE of East Central Illinois (ECI) serves seven rural counties in Illinois, including Coles, Clark, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie, and Shelby Counties. Given Central Illinois’ rural geography, individuals experiencing physical and sexual abuse in the region lack adequate access to resources and support. For the 700 people supported last year, HOPE of ECI is a ray of hope for an independent, violence-free life. The organization provides shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and additional resources to guide clients to a better life.
For individuals who need immediate assistance, HOPE of ECI offers an emergency shelter, which houses up to 24 women and children, as well as a 24-hour, 7-day a week, 365-day a year crisis hotline, providing support, intervention, information, and referrals to anyone seeking information about domestic violence interventions. All services provided by HOPE of ECI are free of charge and available to anyone in need.
County Prestress, through the Sonnentag Foundation, provides the resources HOPE of ECI needs to continue serving survivors and their families. Each year, the Sonnentag Foundation supports dozens of worthy organizations and causes in four service areas, including Hunger and Homelessness Support, Military Personnel and Veteran Support, Sexual Abuse and Domestic Assault Services, and Youth Mentoring and Skills Building.