Fifty years ago, as Brown students, the three of us began learning about the urgent need for support for women experiencing domestic violence. What started as research and advocacy grew into something larger: on October 8, 1976, Sojourner House was founded in Providence, named after the great abolitionist and women’s rights leader Sojourner Truth.

The organization began with a help line and with training for police and emergency responders and eventually opened a shelter for women and children. Over the years, thanks to devoted staff, volunteers, and board members, Sojourner House has grown into a strong, full-service agency serving survivors and families with compassion and care.

Sojourner House has served more than 75,000 people and currently offers emergency, transitional, and permanent supportive housing, counseling, advocacy, education, legal support, and services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Its mission remains as urgent as ever: to promote healthy relationships by providing culturally sensitive support, advocacy, housing, and education, and helping create lasting system change.

RSVP to our Launch Into Summer Ice Cream Fundraiser for Sojourner House!