(SANTA BARBARA, CA , June 28, 2017) – Domestic Violence Solutions of Santa Barbara County
This project will radically improve the aesthetics, safety and enjoyment of the present shelter facility by fully replacing a 25 year old institutional grade playground.
Helping children who have experienced domestic violence is a direct expression of DVS’s mission and an essential dynamic that challenges the inter-generational cycle of violence. Last year, 61% of victims in DVS shelters were children.
Play is an important element of a child’s recovery from trauma, especially for very young children who respond to stress and stressful feelings behaviorally. Through play, children are able to tap into their innocence, and use their imaginations to escape their hurt and pain. Therapeutic play activities are encouraged at all of our shelters and the creation of a stimulating and colorful playground environment would encourage normal social interaction and learning with both adults and other children.