Shade Tree is a wonderful local organization that began in 1990 as a refuge for women and children.  

It is now "the largest shelter of it's kind in the state" at over 38,000 square feet and is open 24 hours a day.  To me what is the most amazing is their decision to make all services available at no charge, no matter the length of stay, so that women and their children will be able to access their services.  

Of course, such an organization needs assistance.  Donations are always in need, you can find a list at http://www.theshadetree.org/UrgentNeeds.html 

But there are also their other programs that need your assistance 

• Day Shelter Program
• Emergency Shelter Program
• Transitional Shelter Program
• Survivor's Service Center
• Job Development
• Life Skills
• Mental Health Service Coordination
• Housing Assistance
• Children's Activity Center (CAC)
• Stallman Touro Clinic at The Shade Tree
• Noah's Animal House 

The application to volunteer and their contact information is on their website at http://www.theshadetree.org/Volunteer.html