Weekly update for YWCA community

Over the past several weeks, there have been multiple news stories about the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on black Americans (see below), on women , and on survivors of domestic violence . The critical duality of our mission, eliminating racism and empowering women, is abundantly clear right now. We are grateful for your support.
What Covid-19 reminds us about race
by Tiffany McDowell, YWCA Equity Institute Director

The world as we know it is changing. The global COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the cracks in our fragile system. While our communities have faced past crises with resilience and strength, the current situation shows that the safety nets we hoped would be available are not enough. Some of us are learning that keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe is much more difficult than simply staying at home.

Over the past week local leaders released data that wasn’t very surprising to the Equity Institute team – racial health disparities are showing up in the way our communities are being impacted by COVID-19. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, two of every five COVID-19 deaths in Illinois have been one of the state’s 1.8 million Black residents. While Black residents make up only 14.6% of the state, they’ve suffered 42% of Illinois’ 307 coronavirus deaths. (Continue reading here.)
Take a Stand Against Racism with us
Different Locations. Shared Experience.
A Community United.

Our annual Stand Against Racism, a popular community event that draws thousands to the streets of Evanston and Skokie each April, will be held next week but with a twist. Instead of standing shoulder-to-shoulder on one day in support of eliminating racism, families, schools, faith-based groups, and other organizations are invited to participate virtually the week of April 20.

We're asking local residents to create signs, tell stories, engage in a project, or read the Stand Against Racism pledge together and post these activities on social media and tag YWCA Evanston/North Shore. Photos and videos also can be emailed to equityinstitute@ywca-ens.org for inclusion on our website and in social media.

Click here to learn more about how you can join us to Stand Against Racism this year.
Upcoming Racial Equity Workshops
We've moved our Racial Equity Workshops online! Now is a perfect time to increase your racial justice vocabulary. Led by trained facilitators, these workshops help participants develop skills necessary to address racism at personal, interpersonal and systemic levels.

You can help the women and children in our shelter. Here's how:
Providing food and essentials for the women and children we are sheltering has become increasingly difficult during these times. If you are able to help by picking up some extra non-perishable items next time you shop, it would ease our load tremendously. Here's what we need:

  • Pasta (at least 2 boxes)
  • Cereal in medium size boxes
  • Assorted instant oatmeal packets
  • Chicken noodle or vegetable soup in cans
  • Canned green beans, corn or mixed vegetables
  • Baby wipes
  • Body wash, bar soap
  • Face masks

Donations can be left in cooler boxes outside the entrance to the YWCA at 1215 Church Street in Evanston. Any help you can provide will be very much appreciated!

Learn more about Covid-19 Emergency Relief needs.
Our community helps us keep going!
Thank you to all who are helping support critical needs for the vulnerable families and domestic violence survivors we serve. We appreciate your encouraging words of support:

"I hope everyone in the wide YW family is safe and healthy. Sadly, I've read recent reports on the increase in domestic violence emanating from stay-at-home orders, making your work that much more critical. Please convey my gratitude to the entire staff, both those on the front lines and those supporting them."

"Thank you for the work you do for our communities."

"Keep up the good work. It is so crucial during this period."

"We know how difficult this time is for everyone, but especially for non-profits and for domestic violence survivors. We remain committed to the YWCA's strong mission and great works so are happy to contribute whenever we can to the cause."
One thoughtful donor is making iPad and iPhone covers for friends, and asking them to make a donation to YWCA Evanston/North Shore in return. Thanks to all who are finding creative ways to support our work!
Let's keep working together
The new CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act is helping to lessen some of the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. One component of the bill is increased charitable giving incentives for individuals and corporations.

If you're able, please make a gift today. Together, we can continue providing support for our community, for families with limited resources, and for domestic violence survivors.

We hope you'll take advantage of the new CARES Act charitable giving tax incentives for individuals.
Your gift will make a difference.
Thank you!
We love our Corporate Partners!
YWCA Evanston/North Shore | Phone 847-864-8445 | ywca@ywca-ens.org | www.ywca-ens.org