MARLBORO COUNTY — The Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault has received a $20,000 Community Development grant from First Citizens Bank to support life skills development and economic empowerment services at its New Beginnings Transitional Shelter (NBTS) in Marlboro County.
The grant will help strengthen a structured life skills and support program designed to equip survivors of domestic violence and their children with the practical tools, knowledge and confidence needed to achieve safety, stability and long-term self-sufficiency.
“Resilient communities are built through partnerships that support those facing significant challenges,” said Jammie McDonald, Manager of Retail Banking for First Citizens Bank. “We are deeply committed to helping our community members achieve long-term stability, and First Citizens is honored to support Pee Dee Coalition’s New Beginnings residents along their path to renewed independence and lasting financial security.”
New Beginnings Transitional Shelter provides safe housing and supportive services to survivors who are rebuilding their lives after experiencing domestic violence. Many residents face significant barriers, including limited financial resources, interrupted employment histories, and difficulty securing stable housing.
Through the Life Skills and Economic Empowerment Program, residents will receive education and individualized support in areas including financial literacy, workforce readiness, employment assistance, independent living and housing stability. Participants will develop practical skills in budgeting, credit and money management, banking, job readiness, communication, household management, and tenant responsibilities.
“We are deeply grateful to First Citizens Bank for this generous investment in Pee Dee Coalition’s Transitional Shelter, New Beginnings,” said Janice Hamlin, New Beginnings Transitional Shelter Services Director. “This $20,000 grant will help us continue empowering survivors of domestic violence and their children with the tools, support and resources they need to move beyond crisis toward safety, stability and self-sufficiency. Partnerships like this truly help change lives.”
The program will also help residents address barriers to long-term stability through workforce development, transportation assistance, access to technology, and individualized support. Services will include résumé development, interview preparation, job search assistance, financial education, transportation planning, tenant education and connections to community resources.
By addressing both immediate needs and long-term economic stability, the program will help survivors prepare for successful transitions into safe, stable housing while building sustainable futures for themselves and their children.
First Citizens Bank’s investment in New Beginnings Transitional Shelter reflects the importance of community partnerships in helping survivors move beyond crisis and toward independence. Through this support, Pee Dee Coalition can continue providing survivors and their children with opportunities to rebuild their lives with greater safety, stability and hope.