As many people spend more time than usual at home amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to remember that home isn’t always a safe or happy place for everyone.

Some area residents may face domestic or sexual violence in the home, and it’s more critical now than ever to ensure survivors of these situations have a safe place they can go.

In light of this, we encourage readers to participate in the 200 Good Men Campaign to support The Women’s Center of Alger and Marquette counties.

The annual campaign seeks donations to help the center support survivors of domestic and sexual violence through programs that protect, educate, advocate, counsel and empower, organizers said in a press release.

It’s particularly important to get involved and donate to the campaign this year, as the Women’s Center of Alger and Marquette counties recently reported that its shelter is full.

“As our area reopens businesses and we all venture out more, victims are able to reach out for the help they need,” organizers said in the release. “Our campaign typically asks for a $100 donation, but in these extraordinary times, any donation, be it more or less, is greatly appreciated and will be recognized.”

The campaign, which runs through August 15, is collecting donations from men and organizers also ask potential donors to “consider donating in honor or in memory of your father, husband, son or significant other. Give the gift of helping others to the man who has always looked out for the ones he loves.”

Donations help support the services that The Women’s Center provides such as counseling, legal advocacy, and operating a 24/7/365 emergency shelter to give survivors “safe shelter as they recover from the trauma of domestic and sexual violence,” organizers said in the release.

We commend The Women’s Center for continuing its important work amid such challenging times and all who have already contributed to the center’s mission by donating or volunteering.

We hope readers will consider giving to this campaign, as your donation can make all the difference for area residents who face domestic or sexual violence.

Visit the Women’s Center website at https://wcmqt.org/news/200-good-men/ for a donation form or to donate directly online.

To learn more, call The Women’s Center at 906-225-1346.

For those in need of support or resources, The Women’s Center offers a confidential support line at 906-226-6611 or 1-800-455-6611.