Who We Are
How We Work - History & Mission
Doorways empowers women and families who are abused, homeless or at-risk to live safe, secure and self-sufficient lives. We provide self-sufficiency and prevention services, and educate the larger community about domestic violence and homelessness.
Doorways' History
Prior to Doorways’ founding in 1978, the only shelter for battered or homeless women and their children in Arlington was a night in a motel. Doorways was developed through an interfaith collaboration and became Arlington's first emergency and Safehouse shelter. During the 1980s, two houses were purchased to establish permanent homes for our two shelters. With the generosity of donors, volunteers and staff, Doorways has provided a lifesaving continuum of care, hope and safety for thousands or women and children who experience the crises of domestic violence and/or homelessness.