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The Kitchen Table

Need help from someone in Illinois, please

18 years ago

Late last night I called a crisis center/shelter in Granite City to get information for a friend. I needed to know what help they are able to offer a woman and her children who are fleeing an abusive marriage. The woman who answered the crisis helpline was not helpful at all and was, in fact, rather on the surly side.

There is another crisis center/shelter located in Alton. When I called that number, I received a recorded message stating "You cannot reach this number from your calling area." Since I am in Michigan, I can sorta understand that. So, I'm asking if one of you will please make the call for me.

It is the

Oasis WomenÂs Center

Alton, IL

800-244-1978

I was given these locations by the National Abuse Hotline. They told me the Oasis Women's Center offers shelter, job placement, and counseling. I would like to confirm this and understand everything it is they offer, such as

1. shelter for how long

2. how many children they accept (I think my friend has four)

3. if there is an age limit on the children (the other center limits age 12 for male children. I don't know why)

4. assistance with the local DHS

5. assistance with filing forms for child support, etc.

6. housing/apartment hunting

Info on everything they offer and any other questions you can think to ask.

Thanx to anyone who can help. I really appreciate it.

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Comments (5)

Chemocurl zn5b/6a Indiana
18 years ago
Out of curiosity, I called to see what I got from Indiana...I got a fast busy...sure don't know what that is about.

I found this on the net

Oasis Women's Center - Alton
(618)465-1978
Clients: Women and their children whoa re victims of domestic violence

I called it and talked to a volunteer who though nice, could not answer much.

Yes...can take a woman and 4 children...subject to her application, and availability.
only males under 12 or 14 years of age...not sure

Please call back after 1:15 and there will be a 'staff' person there who can better answer your questions.

hth

Sue
grammahony
18 years ago
Wow, you'd be up a creek if you had to leave in a hurry. Nobody seems to know anything. I hope you find something.
Leslie
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Original Author
18 years ago
Thanx for your help, Sue. Doesn't appear they can help since I'm pretty sure she has a 14 year old son. Do they think no one with teenage boys is in need of help?
Chemocurl zn5b/6a Indiana
18 years ago
Possibly the mother and other children stay there, and other provisions are made for males over 12/14...maybe near by, or group foster home or something. Surely there is someplace for the older boys to go.

Maybe 14 and under are 'allowed'.
rosemaryt
18 years ago
Gosh, I lived in Alton for many years and found this place to be a fantastic resource. Recently I visited Alton and found that the building the shelter was housed in was recently converted to condos. I don't know where Oasis woman's shelter is now.

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