Sojourn Celebrates 50 years Supporting Survivors

Sojourn was founded in 1975 as a result of a grassroots effort by concerned citizens in the community. The primary goal was to provide a safe place to help survivors of domestic violence. Initially working toward a drop-in meeting place for women to gather, the need for shelter from domestic violence became evident. The agency serves a five-county area: Sangamon, Logan, Christian, Montgomery and Menard. Survivors are not required to reside in one of these counties in order to receive services.

The shelter began as a four-bed facility operated by volunteers and an operating budget of approximately $6,000 annually. Expenses were met by the dedicated and resourceful volunteers each month. Besides shelter, services consisted of counseling for both adults and children. Originally called “Sojourn Women’s Center”, the name was changed in 1994 to more accurately reflect the nature of services and mission.

In April 1998, the agency moved to a new 1.2 million dollar facility at 1800 Westchester Boulevard. This facility features eight private family sleeping quarters, modern kitchen and living areas, staff offices and counseling rooms and an enclosed outdoor courtyard.

Sojourn Shelter & Services, Inc. is a member of the the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, and a certified United Way Agency.

All services to the survivor are free of charge and confidential.