blog and news

The global pandemic is changing life as we know it right before our eyes. The measures put into place to keep the virus from spreading and help keep the public stay safe – including social distancing and stay-at-home orders – have put many people in danger, especially victims of domestic violence and abuse. Throughout this pandemic, it’s important to not only keep ourselves safe, but to raise awareness for those who are most vulnerable during this time of crisis.

With people losing their jobs, schools closing, and the COVID-19 landscape quickly changing, A New Leaf continues to provide critical services to individuals and families in need. The work we do is more important than ever. 

With the recent spread of the Coronavirus and disruption in the Valley, A New Leaf is taking steps to address the crisis and protect the health of clients, staff, volunteers, donors, and the community at large.

October was National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A month that is meant to bring attention to the men, women and children who have been or are currently survivors of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is a very pervasive issue that can affect people from any walks of life. It does not discriminate between class race or gender. Since 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence chances are you know someone who is currently in a domestic violence situation or has been in the past.

Have you ever stopped and thought about what you would do if one day you became homeless? Who you would rely on? What resources you would reach out to? Many people and families face these questions when they unexpectedly find themselves without a home.

Over 150 volunteers from State Farm joined together Thursday, November 11 to assemble care packages for veterans served by A New Leaf, a local non-profit serving those most in need across the Valley. In just one morning, volunteers assembled over 1,500 care packages, containing frequently requested items and a special message to thank them for their service. The care packages will go to veterans served by emergency shelter, supportive housing, employment development, and the Veterans Business Outreach Center, which provides assistance for veterans interested in starting a small business.

The month of May is known for many things: the end of the school year, the season of spring and of course, the smell of fresh flowers. But did you know May is also home to National Foster Care Month? National Foster Care Month first began in 1988, when President Reagan issued a proclamation announcing May as the month of recognition. Since then, it has continued to be recognized and celebrated by agencies, families and individuals throughout the country. 

The month of May will be full of giving thanks to Bashas’ Family of Stores! Beginning May 1, Bashas’ and A New Leaf will partner to launch A New Leaf for A New Start, an in-store donation campaign designed to provide shelter and support for victims of domestic violence and homelessness.

An evening of delicious cocktails and fabulous festivities brought together supporters of Arizona Women’s Education & Employment (AWEE) to benefit the program’s Clothing Boutique on March 5. The event raised critical funds to support the mission of AWEE. A record donation of clothing – nearly five tons of clothing – was received by AWEE to help individuals in job interviews and finding employment.