Since 1976, House of Ruth DC has been a haven for women and children fleeing domestic violence. The organization launched with a housing focus, later expanding to meet the varied needs that accompany homelessness and domestic violence.
Today, House of Ruth operates 15 programs across the District of Columbia, including housing, counseling, and child development services. Their goal is to empower survivors of domestic violence to break the cycle of abuse and live independently, safely, and with dignity. The organization achieves this mission by providing comprehensive, trauma-informed services that address each survivor’s and their family’s unique needs.
“The View” recently featured House of Ruth’s work on its nationally syndicated ABC talk show. In 1986, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal and the late Robin Williams founded Comic Relief, a comedy special that raised substantial funds to address homelessness. House of Ruth was their first chosen charity recipient. The three visited House of Ruth two months later with a $250,000 check.
On Wednesday, Oct. 23, House of Ruth President and CEO Sandra Jackson visited “The View’s” New York set. Billy Crystal was a guest on the show. Jackson and members of her leadership team presented archival photos from the 1986 visit. Goldberg and Crystal shared their memories of the trip to Washington, D.C.
During a commercial break, Jackson shared with The View’s hosts and audience the impact of the Comic Relief trio’s visit and donation.
Next month, we hope to host Sandra Jackson on our show so she can share the spectacular service being provided to survivors.
“Hope Starts Here” is House of Ruth’s calling card, providing comprehensive support for families’ journey toward a hopeful future.
Board member Helena S. Valentine said the 501(c)(3) nonprofit shares a vision that everyone deserves to live free from violence and fear.
“Ms. Jackson and her staff work tirelessly every day to make this happen,” said Valentine. “From childcare to therapy to housing to counseling, Ms. Jackson is adamant about providing a haven for mothers and their families. She says, ‘I do not want to offer a house or service where I would not stay or use myself.'”
House of Ruth serves women in the greater D.C. area. While other organizations do similar work with similar names, House of Ruth has no affiliation with House of Ruth Maryland, Los Angeles House of Ruth, or House of Ruth in Claremont. The organization is not affiliated with any religious ideals or practices.
Washington, D.C., has historically lacked shelters for women, and House of Ruth was built to improve these conditions. The nonprofit is open to anyone who identifies as a woman and their dependents, and is committed to serving all survivors of domestic violence, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality.
Special thanks to Valca Valentine for helping with this column on the history of House of Ruth. Though I have my own domestic violence story, this story stands alone as a testament to an organization helping women who have nowhere else to turn. May God continue to bless this organization for the wonderful services they are providing over so many years, and still going!
Lyndia Grant is a speaker/writer living in the D.C. area. Her radio show, “Think on These Things,” airs Fridays at 6 p.m. on 1340 AM (WYCB), a Radio One station. To reach Grant, visit her website, www.lyndiagrant.com, email lyndiagrantshowdc@gmail.com or call 240-602-6295. Follow her on X @LyndiaGrant and on Facebook.
