Our Programs
PRESENTS PROGRAM
When families experiencing domestic violence flee their homes, they often leave all of their possessions behind. More importantly, children who witness domestic violence need to be grounded in nurturing, positive relationships with the non-violent parent or caregiver. This is the driving force behind PRESENT NOW’s Presents Program. In partnership with our network of Shelter Partners, PRESENT NOW delivers three presents per year – one on Valentine’s Day, one for Back to School, and one on their Birthday – to the safe parent, helping them rekindle a healthy, loving relationship with their children during their recovery.
Presence of Love
Some studies have shown that incidences of domestic violence increase around Valentine’s Day and Super Bowl weekend. The Presence of Love gifts include an age-appropriate STEAM-oriented gift to encourage and aid in learning to support the emotional recovery and well-being of children affected by domestic violence. The Presence of Love gifts always promotes a flexible learning environment so children can pursue their education and tap into their creativity no matter where they live. All children are worthy of love, and we are proud to gift these presents each year on Valentine’s Day.
Presence of Mind
Presence of Mind gifts are backpacks filled with school supplies based on age and grade level. Starting a new school year can be a challenging time for children who have left their homes and have already experienced tremendous emotional turmoil and changes in their lives. We help children feel confident about their new school year and prepared to learn.
Presence of Being
Birthdays mark important milestones in a child’s life. The Presence of Being gifts helps make birthdays at the shelters special for children and their families. Each Presence of Being gift is customized and personalized and includes a new outfit, age-appropriate books and toys, and a restaurant gift card so that the safe parent can treat the child to a birthday meal. Additionally, we include cake mix, frosting, and candles so families can bake a birthday cake together. We aim to alleviate any financial stress for the safe parent to celebrate their child’s birthday, and for all children to feel seen and special on their birthday.
OUR IMPACT
18,266 Presents
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152 Transitional Homes
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15 States
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18,266 Presents • 152 Transitional Homes • 15 States •
Presence of Joy
The Presence of Joy program is an educational volunteer program for Los Angeles-based high school students. Members will have the opportunity to participate in educational seminars led by professionals in the domestic violence field and volunteer opportunities at PRESENT NOW and local domestic violence shelters. Our goal is to provide meaningful opportunities for teens to bring joy to children living in transitional domestic violence shelters through present packing and volunteering directly at shelters.
