Improving the health and safety of women and girls of color

YWCA has long advocated for the health and safety of women and girls. As the largest network of domestic violence service providers in the country, we remain committed to supporting survivors and reducing violence against women and girls. Annually, more than 900,000 women and families participate in YWCA health and safety programs and services — from domestic violence and sexual assault services to aquatics and fitness programs, health resources and referrals.

YWCA seeks to improve the lives of women and girls by providing high-quality health and wellness programs that are too often not available to communities of color. We serve 400,000 women, girls and their families with health screening programs, fitness classes and other programs and services that address health inequities.

In addition to our direct services, for over 20 years YWCA has hosted the annual Week Without Violence campaign, which mobilizes people in communities across the United States to take action against all forms of violence, wherever it may occur. Through rich and complex dialogues on violence, workshops, community service opportunities and public awareness events, Week Without Violence places the pervasive nature of violence and its impact on the communities we serve at the forefront of the conversation.

Woman Doing Yoga, Health and Safety, YWCA USA

Our Health & Safety Focus Areas

Smiling Family, Advocacy, YWCA USA

Our Impact

Sixty-five associations reported having a health and wellness program, and these associations said:

  • 109 programs

  • Served 114,013 people

  • 47.32% of people served were people of color

  • 64.47% of people served were Women and Girls

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Mother and Children, Childcare, YWCA USA

Learn more about our health and safety policy priorities

Additional Resources

Protect women and girls of color by fighting domestic violence and promoting healthy lifestyle habits with the YWCA Health and Safety Checklist

Stand up for girls’ and women’s health and safety

  • Take advocacy action

    We invite you to join us and take action on Empowerment & Economic Advancement priorities directly affecting women and communities of color

  • Join Week Without Violence

    Join us as we raise awareness, elevate survivor voices, talk with policymakers, and more with a common goal: centering survivors

  • Find your Local YWCA

    Learn about the services we offer, and volunteer or provide support

  • Donate

    Your support in any form or amount is integral to helping advance our mission.