Hope and Healing on the Eastern Shore: ESCADV’S Mission to Empower Survivors

ACCOMACK COUNTY, Va. — Nestled on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, the Eastern Shore Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ESCADV) has quietly but powerfully provided a lifeline to survivors of domestic and sexual abuse for nearly three decades. With a mission to support and empower victims while working to increase awareness and prevention in the community, ESCADV stands as a beacon of hope for those facing some of life’s darkest moments.

Founded in 1996, ESCADV initially operated a 16-bed duplex-style shelter. But as the need for safe, emergency housing grew, the small facility often found itself stretched beyond capacity. In its early years, it wasn’t unusual for the shelter to house 30 clients, with nearly half placed in hotels once the main shelter filled up.

The challenges of COVID-19 only intensified the strain. To reduce the risk of viral spread, ESCADV was forced to limit the number of people in its shelter to just one family per unit, a move that tripled housing costs as more survivors had to be temporarily placed in hotels.

Recognizing this strain, ESCADV launched a capital campaign in 2021 to expand its services and provide a more sustainable solution. The result was Hope Harbor, a multi-building campus that now houses an emergency shelter, administrative offices, and space for future expansion. The $1.7 million project culminated in the opening of a newly renovated shelter in October 2022, followed by the completion of the administrative and advocacy offices in May 2023.

Today, ESCADV has turned its attention to the third building at Hope Harbor, which will include eight apartments — four for survivors transitioning to stable housing and four for workforce housing, addressing a critical need on the Shore.

“Hope Harbor is a testament to the resilience and strength of survivors and the community that supports them,” said Susan Mariner, underscoring the critical need for ongoing support.

ESCADV’s reach extends far beyond its shelter walls. The organization’s dedicated team includes advocates serving both Accomack and Northampton counties, as well as a children’s advocate, a Hispanic and shelter advocate, and a sexual assault advocate. Together, they provide crisis counseling, case management, safety planning, and referrals to other vital community resources. Support is always just a phone call away through ESCADV’s confidential 24-hour hotline at (757) 787-1329.

At the heart of ESCADV’s mission is providing a safe, supportive space for survivors. The Hope Harbor shelter welcomes men, women, and children without discrimination based on race, color, sexual orientation, national origin, or age. During their stay, survivors work closely with trained advocates to develop personalized plans for safe, permanent housing and other long-term goals. These advocates, including specialists for children, Hispanic families, and survivors of sexual assault, offer services such as supportive counseling, skill development, safety planning, and accompaniment for court appearances.

ESCADV’s advocates, based in both Accomack and Northampton counties, provide critical support for survivors who may not require shelter but still need assistance navigating the aftermath of trauma. Services include trauma-informed care, safety planning, referrals to community resources, and help with obtaining safe housing.

In addition to direct services, ESCADV plays a vital role in community education. Staff members participate in events like farmer’s markets, faith-based gatherings, and community days to raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence. They also offer customized presentations and training sessions for organizations interested in learning more about topics like teen dating violence, sexual assault, and community safety.

Through a partnership with the Eastern Shore Community Services Board (ESCSB), ESCADV provides clinical counseling at no cost to clients, helping survivors process their experiences and rebuild their lives. These trauma-focused therapy sessions are designed to empower individuals to overcome their past and move forward with confidence and resilience.

For those looking to support ESCADV’s mission, the organization maintains a wishlist of essential items needed to support survivors as they rebuild their lives. Commonly requested donations include diapers, full-size hygiene products, bedding, cleaning supplies, and kitchen essentials.

For more information about ESCADV’s services or to find out how to support their efforts, visit their website at www.escadv.org.

For those who want to support this essential work in a hands-on way, volunteer opportunities are available year-round. These include administrative support, graphic design for community outreach, donation management, and help with special events. Volunteers can reach out via email at jbulin@escadv.org or by calling (757) 787-1959.

The road to recovery is often long and challenging, but for survivors on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, ESCADV is there every step of the way, providing not just shelter, but hope, healing, and a path forward.