The Women’s Resource Center welcomed more than 100 supporters to its annual Seaside Celebration on Monday evening, raising more than $85,000 to support free and confidential services for survivors of domestic violence in Newport and Bristol Counties.
Co-hosted by Elizabeth Leatherman and Susan Sipprelle on a tented dockside terrace overlooking Newport Harbor, the evening featured seasonal food, live music, and remarks from organization leaders — including a brief audio clip in which survivors shared their hopes for the future and their gratitude for the center’s services.
Board President Lauren Haley noted that the Women’s Resource Center served 1,300 individuals and answered 1,100 hotline calls in 2025. “Those numbers are significant,” Haley said, “but what matters most is what they represent: people finding safety, families finding stability, and survivors finding hope.”
A $30,000 challenge match helped push the evening’s total past $85,000.
“Because of your generosity, your partnership, and your belief that every survivor deserves the opportunity to not only be safe but to thrive, we have grown our programs and services significantly,” said Executive Director Jessica Walsh.
The Women’s Resource Center’s 24/7 hotline is available at 401-846-5263.
