Brunswick and Columbus Counties outline clear ways the public can strengthen lifesaving services
By BCNews Staff Writer
Domestic violence agencies in Brunswick and Columbus counties are urging the public to help reinforce the critical services that protect survivors every day. Hope Harbor Home in Brunswick County and Families First, Inc. in Columbus County both report rising demand for emergency shelter, crisis response, and long‑term advocacy — making community involvement more important than ever.
In Brunswick County, Hope Harbor Home, located in Supply and serving the region for more than three decades, continues to operate a 24/7 crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and comprehensive advocacy services. Residents can reach the agency at 910‑754‑5856 for immediate crisis assistance or visit hopeharborhome.org for information on services, donations, and volunteer opportunities. Administrative inquiries may be directed to its business line at 910‑754‑5726, and mail can be sent to P.O. Box 230, Supply, NC 28462.
Across the county line, Families First, Inc. in Whiteville provides Columbus County with its primary domestic violence and sexual assault services. The organization operates a confidential emergency shelter, a 24/7 crisis hotline, and court and counseling support for survivors. Families First can be reached at 910‑641‑0444 for crisis needs or 910‑642‑5996 for office assistance. Additional information, including ways to donate or volunteer, is available at familiesfirstnc.org. The agency’s main office is located at 110 Courthouse Square, Whiteville, NC 28472.
Both organizations stress that community support directly strengthens their ability to respond. Donations of toiletries, bedding, cleaning supplies, children’s items, and non‑perishable food help shelters meet immediate needs when survivors arrive with little or nothing. Financial contributions allow both agencies to maintain round‑the‑clock hotlines, provide transportation, and offer counseling and legal advocacy at no cost.
Volunteers remain essential to daily operations. Community members can assist with office tasks, support fundraising events, help at Hope Harbor’s thrift stores, or offer professional skills such as legal guidance, financial planning, or maintenance work. Local businesses can also make a significant impact by hosting donation drives, sponsoring awareness campaigns, or providing employment opportunities for survivors rebuilding their independence.
Both agencies emphasize that awareness is one of the most powerful tools the public can offer. Sharing hotline numbers, posting resources in workplaces and churches, and speaking openly about domestic violence helps reduce stigma and ensures survivors know where to turn for help.
As demand for services continues to rise across southeastern North Carolina, Hope Harbor Home and Families First encourage residents to stay engaged, stay aware, and stay supportive. Their message remains clear: community involvement saves lives.
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