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The federal government shutdown is still having a serious impact on women and families across the country—including right here at YWCA Central Carolinas. Many of our participants rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put food on the table. Because of the shutdown, those benefits were delayed or reduced. This disruption affects 100% of the families in our Families Together (FT) program, 40% of the women in our Women in Transition (WIT) program and many of the families enrolled in our Youth Learning Centers (YLCs).

As we continue to monitor the situation and the uncertainty surrounding SNAP funding, many families still face delays before assistance reaches them.

Now more than ever, we need your help to fill this urgent and growing food gap for the people we serve. Together, we can make sure that women and families who call YWCA home continue to have access to the food and support they need.

How You Can Help

1. Donate $25 gift cards — highest priority: Gift cards to Food Lion or Aldi are the fastest, most effective way to help right now. They will be distributed directly to women and families in our housing programs and Youth Learning Center programs across Mecklenburg and Union counties.

2. We encourage you to support our community partners—Nourish Up and Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina—who are working tirelessly to fight hunger across our region.

Drop-Off Details

Gift cards can be dropped off at the YWCA front desk 9 AM-7 PM. Every item collected will go directly to the women and families in our housing and youth programs.

Your generosity helps ensure no woman or family goes without food or hope in the coming weeks. We will continue to update this post as our needs and the situation evolve.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Jamila Green, Community Engagement Manager, at jgreen@ywcacentralcarolinas.org.

We’re excited to officially announce the name of the new affordable housing community under construction on YWCA’s front lawn: Wheatley Place! Grounds for Change, the campaign supporting the development of Wheatley Place, marks an important step in YWCA Central Carolinas’ commitment to supporting families and individuals in our community.

The name Wheatley Place honors Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American woman poet, and pays tribute to the former YWCA branch in Charlotte named in her honor. Founded in 1917 as one of the first YWCA branches for African American women and girls, the Wheatley Branch played a vital role in uplifting and empowering Charlotte’s Black community. By naming our new community Wheatley Place, we pay tribute to YWCA’s powerful mission of empowering women and eliminating racism and our rich history.

YWCA has contracted with DreamKey Partners to build 80 affordable housing units on our front lawn to support families and individuals earning 30–60% of the area median income, addressing Charlotte’s growing need for safe, accessible and affordable homes.

We’re thrilled to see Wheatley Place take shape and to continue building a stronger, more inclusive Charlotte for everyone.

Charlotte, NC — YWCA Central Carolinas is proud to announce that its literacy-based after-school program, formerly located at Billingsville Elementary School, has found a new home at Grier Heights Presbyterian Church, located in the heart of the historic Grier Heights community.

YWCA’s after-school program was welcomed to the church’s education spaces, providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow and thrive beyond the school day.

“We are excited to begin this new chapter in partnership with Grier Heights Presbyterian Church,” said Dr. Pamela G. Senegal, CEO of YWCA Central Carolinas. “This location allows us to continue supporting families by offering high-quality academic enrichment in a space that is deeply connected to the community.”

YWCA’s after-school program provides literacy support, social-emotional learning and enrichment activities designed to empower youth with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school and life. Families will also benefit from the program’s emphasis on building community and fostering a sense of belonging.

Rev. Dr. Anita Wright, Pastor of Grier Heights Presbyterian Church, shared, “Our church has always been committed to uplifting children and families in Grier Heights. Partnering with YWCA is a natural extension of that mission, and we are honored to provide a welcoming space for their program.”

The partnership between YWCA Central Carolinas and Grier Heights Presbyterian Church reflects both organizations’ dedication to advancing equity, opportunity and strong community connections in Charlotte.

About YWCA Central Carolinas
YWCA Central Carolinas is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people. YWCA does this by providing transitional housing and case management support to women and families, after-school literacy programs to K-5 students, racial justice and advocacy programming that educates and mobilizes the community, and a co-ed fitness center that empowers neighbors. Learn more about YWCA’s programs and services at ywcacentralcarolinas.org.

About Grier Heights Presbyterian Church
Grier Heights Presbyterian Church exists to serve God and care for our community. Located in the Historic Grier Heights Community, we live out our mission: “Serving God, Caring for the Community.” We reach out to our congregation with love, lead the un-churched into a relationship with Jesus Christ, and partner with others to improve the social, economic and personal quality of life in the Grier Heights community in particular, and the nation and the world in general. Learn more about Grier Heights Presbyterian Church at www.ghpc325.com.

Green Justice Here and Now: North Carolina’s Role in Advancing Environmental Justice

The environmental justice movement seeks to ensure that all individuals—regardless of race, income, or background—are treated equitably in environmental decision-making and are protected from disproportionate exposure to environmental hazards. Historically, marginalized communities have been subjected to unsafe environmental practices, often without the power or resources to resist.

A Movement Rooted in North Carolina

North Carolina holds a significant place in the history of environmental justice. In 1982, the rural community of Warren County became the epicenter of a major nonviolent protest against the siting of a hazardous waste landfill. This demonstration, which resulted in over 500 arrests, united environmental and civil rights advocates and is widely recognized as the catalyst for the national environmental justice movement.

Defining Environmental Racism

The term environmental racism was coined by North Carolina native Reverend Benjamin Chavis Jr., who described it as a systemic issue—beyond individual prejudice—that poses critical threats to the health and safety of communities of color.

Environmental racism refers to policies, practices, or conditions that result in the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards on Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color. Manifestations include:

The placement of polluting facilities in minority neighborhoods
Inadequate infrastructure for climate resilience
Health disparities stemming from prolonged environmental exposure

Case Study: Charlotte’s Historic West End Green District

In 2017, CleanAire NC, in collaboration with local stakeholders, established a Green District in Charlotte’s Historic West End. This initiative was designed to address air quality, reduce emissions, and promote environmental equity. Efforts have included the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, the development of green infrastructure, and the strategic placement of trees—marking meaningful progress toward a healthier, more sustainable community.

Continuing the Work

Although progress has been made, achieving true environmental justice requires continued commitment and engagement. Individuals can support this work by partnering with organizations such as:

Sol Nation
Sustain Charlotte
CleanAire NC
The Black Girl Environmentalist Collective

Additionally, civic engagement—through voting, participating in public forums, and advocating for inclusive policies—remains essential in protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring that environmental justice becomes a reality for all.

YWCA Central Carolinas’ annual fundraising luncheon, We Believe 2025, took place on March 4, bringing together dedicated supporters who share our commitment to advancing our mission and programs.

We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of our valued partners, including Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas. Their continued sponsorship of We Believe 2025 is vital in driving our impact forward. Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas have long empowered equity in our community. Their ongoing support of YWCA Central Carolinas strengthens our mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

With their support of We Believe 2025, Duke Energy & Piedmont Natural Gas have enabled us to broaden our reach and deepen our community impact, ensuring more people benefit from our programs.

“Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are proud to support YWCA Central Carolinas as a We Believe 2025 presenting sponsor. This event highlighted the critical work YWCA does to create lasting change in our community, providing opportunities for the community to contribute to its mission. We recognize YWCA’s commitment to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all, and we were honored to stand alongside them in this important work,” Lisa Rhyne, Government and Community Relations Manager, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas, said.

We sincerely appreciate Duke Energy & Piedmont Natural Gas for their enduring partnership and commitment to advancing equity alongside YWCA Central Carolinas.

Charlotte, NC — DreamKey Partners, in partnership with YWCA Central Carolinas, is excited to break ground on “Grounds for Change,” a transformative affordable housing development located on YWCA’s 10-acre property on Park Road. YWCA is proud to contribute land and significant philanthropic support for this project that advances our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. This transformative project will provide 80 affordable housing units reserved for households earning 30%–60% of the area median income (AMI).

These units contribute to alleviating Charlotte’s lack of affordable housing, an urgent need that has grown to crisis proportions in recent years. YWCA Central Carolinas remains committed to fostering equity and stability in our community, and this project represents a major step forward in providing desperately needed housing options for individuals and families. As a natural extension of our long-standing efforts through the Women in Transition and Families Together programs, which provide transitional housing and case management for women and families facing homelessness, Grounds for Change underscores YWCA Central Carolinas’ dedication to addressing the homelessness and housing crisis in our city.

“The visionary women of YWCA Central Carolinas have been dreaming big dreams for well over a century, but realizing THIS particular dream is especially inspiring, given all the delays we’ve faced. Our excitement and commitment to transforming these acres into affordable housing for 80 households has never wavered. That groundbreaking day has arrived, bringing with it the opportunity to make a world of difference for generations to come,” said CEO Kirsten Sikkelee, who will transition into the role of Senior Project Liaison to Grounds for Change on March 3.

Originally announced in 2020 with plans to break ground in 2021, “Grounds for Change” faced significant delays due to the effects of the pandemic including inflation and cost escalations, but our dedication to this initiative has persisted. Despite challenges, YWCA Central Carolinas and DreamKey Partners have worked diligently to bring this vision to life, and today’s groundbreaking signifies the start of construction on a brighter future for countless families and individuals. We anticipate that units from the Grounds for Change development will be move-in ready by early 2027.

“The YWCA in particular… has been an advocate and a champion of affordable housing for decades,” said Mayor Pro Tem and City Council Member Dante’ Anderson, highlighting YWCA’s longstanding commitment to housing solutions. She also recognized YWCA’s Families Together and Women In Transition programs as key initiatives supporting individuals and families in need.

“DreamKey Partners is thrilled to collaborate with the YWCA on the development of affordable housing at their Park Road campus. The ambitious vision championed by the YWCA’s board and staff promises not only to build a vibrant community, but also to significantly enhance economic opportunities for low-income families in Charlotte. Through this unique partnership, we hope to inspire others to reimagine what’s possible in creating affordable housing solutions within their own neighborhoods,” Julie Porter, President of DreamKey Partners, said.

The Grounds for Change development exemplifies the power of collaboration and community-focused innovation. As construction begins, YWCA Central Carolinas is proud to celebrate this milestone and its meaningful impact on the Charlotte community.

Charlotte, NC – YWCA Central Carolinas is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Pamela Gibson Senegal as its new Chief Executive Officer. Senegal, who currently serves as President of Piedmont Community College, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

With a proven track record of closing student equity gaps, enhancing programs, and fostering community partnerships, Senegal is well-positioned to lead YWCA Central Carolinas into an exciting new chapter. Having served as the president of Piedmont Community College since 2017, she is now looking forward to returning home to Charlotte, North Carolina.

“I am incredibly honored that the Board of YWCA has selected me to continue this

important legacy of work dedicated to empowering women and eliminating racism. I look forward to working with staff, volunteers and donors to create more opportunities for women, children, and families to thrive and fulfill their destinies in the region we serve,” the Charlotte native said.

“The Board of Directors and selection committee were committed to finding a CEO who deeply embodies YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women,” said Board President Brittany Conner. “We are confident that under Senegal’s leadership, YWCA Central Carolinas will continue to drive meaningful change and create lasting opportunities for those we serve.”

Since its founding in 1902, YWCA Central Carolinas has been a cornerstone in the Charlotte community, advocating for equity, stability and opportunity. With Senegal at the helm, the organization will continue to advance its critical work including transitional housing, youth literacy programs and racial justice and advocacy work.

Senegal looks forward to joining the organization on March 3. For more information about YWCA Central Carolinas and its programs, visit https://ywcacentralcarolinas.org.

Dear YWCA Family,

Executive orders issued this week by the new administration have amplified anxiety and fear for so many people across our nation. YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people compels us to have courage, speak the truth and stand with and for those who are most vulnerable in light of such orders.

On the same day that our nation honored the life’s work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose work for justice continues, our country also inaugurated our new president. In the worship service traditionally held as a part of the inaugural events, Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, Episcopal Bishop of our nation’s capital, spoke directly.

She reminded our incoming leaders that Americans had placed their trust in them and asked the new president “to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” She asked, “God grant us the strength and courage to honor the dignity of every human being, to speak the truth to one another in love.”

This morning, one of our youth learning center coordinators said to me, “In such fearful, discouraging times, I’m encouraged to be a part of this work at YWCA. It gives me hope.” I couldn’t agree more.

Throughout our history, YWCA Central Carolinas has aspired to serve as a beacon of hope in the face of racism, misogyny, injustice and discrimination. May we all have the courage to hold fast to our values and speak out when faced with injustice. For in our humanity, we are indeed one.

Peace be with each of you,

Kirsten D. Sikkelee

Chief Executive Officer

Dear YWCA Family,

This morning, our country awakened in a democracy that cast its votes for new leaders. Many Americans are celebrating. Many are grieving and afraid. At YWCA Central Carolinas, we will continue to be guided by our anti-racist, anti-sexist mission that upholds peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.

As the first Black and South Asian American woman nominated by a major party to run for the nation’s highest office, Vice President Kamala Harris embodies the mission and vision of YWCA. Her nomination broke barriers and modeled a leadership path for today’s women and girls and future generations to come. Women of color have always fed, led and nurtured this nation, even when this nation has, over centuries, refused to acknowledge even their humanity.

YWCA Central Carolinas does not shy away from the hard work and determination to build a racially equitable nation in which women and girls can thrive. Even in a divided climate, hope remains a powerful, radical act. Today, we recommit to our mission, lead in the way we hope to be led and turn towards justice.

Peace be with each of you,

Kirsten D. Sikkelee, Chief Executive Officer

In May 2022, Latasha, a strong mother of five, had run out of options. After her relationship with the father of her five children ended, she was in need of a path forward. She had been living in a housing program with her family, but due to the breakup, she and her children, aged 4 through 21, had to move out. With nowhere else to go, she moved her family into her mother’s living room. She knew she needed to find a path forward, but didn’t know where to start.

After doing some research, Latasha learned about YWCA’s Families Together program. Through this program, YWCA provides safe, affordable housing and intensive support services for families with minor children facing homelessness. Immediately, Latasha knew it was a fit. She had her social worker write her a referral, and soon, she and her children were approved. Finally, there was a glimmer of light on their path forward.

When Latasha and her four youngest children moved into one of YWCA’s Families Together townhomes, she was overcome with gratitude. “I was grateful that we didn’t just have a place to stay, but we had our own kitchen. I had my own bedroom. And YWCA provided everything we needed: bedding, washcloths, towels and more,” shared Latasha. Although it had been a difficult period of transition, “It felt like a step in the right direction — a stepping stone,” shared Latasha.

Now with a safe roof over their heads, Latasha and her family had the time and energy to set and work
towards goals with the help of YWCA’s Families Together staff. Latasha wanted to achieve financial
stability. She needed to save money, provide support and a stable home for her children. And most importantly, she needed to secure permanent housing — a safe place for her and her young children to grow together as a family.

The journey to financial stability and permanent housing is not an easy one, but with the support of the Families Together program, Latasha kept putting one foot in front of the other by budgeting, taking classes, and navigating affordable housing waitlists. While seeing the finish line was difficult at first, she gained hope and knowledge by celebrating other families in the Families Together program who had graduated into permanent housing. It opened her mind to what was possible for her and her family, even though she had a long road ahead of her to achieving her goals.

After nearly 18 months of hard work and perseverance, Latasha and her children got to experience that same excitement they witnessed in their Families Together neighbors. They were approved for Section 8 housing, thanks to YWCA’s partnership with Inlivian, and moved out of Families Together this past January — graduating from the program into permanent housing. “This part felt really far away when I first started the program,” shared Latasha, but thanks to the one on-one support she received in the program, “I knew it was reachable.”

Now, a few months later, Latasha and her children have settled into their new home. Her children were able to stay in the same school district, able to avoid the uprooting that happens when young students transfer schools. And as Latasha reflects on her journey, she’s looking forward to the future, too. Today, Latasha is working towards bigger goals — like improving her financial stability and her career. She wants to eventually become a social worker or work in the human services field, and to be able to give back and support others who have walked her same path. She was even able to take classes in human services and case management while in YWCA’s program.

The future is bright for Latasha and her children, and YWCA is so proud to have played a role in their story. Thank you to YWCA’s generous donors who support our transitional housing programs. Latasha’s story is possible because of you.