At Our Voice, we believe that survivors of sexual violence and intimate partner violence deserve to feel supported wherever they are. That’s why we are proud to partner with Helpmate to bring the Porchlight Project to Buncombe County.
The Porchlight Project is a simple yet powerful way for our community to come together in support of survivors. Local businesses and organizations can become designated “Porchlight” locations—welcoming spaces where survivors can step inside, ask for help, and be connected to resources.
How It Works
Each Porchlight location provides:
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A phone that survivors can use to call crisis services or 911
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A discreet and caring environment while they wait for support
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Staff who have received brief training to respond with compassion and understanding
When someone needs help, all they have to say is, “I need to use the phone.” From there, trained staff can provide quiet support and connect them with services.
Why It Matters
For survivors, moments of crisis can feel isolating. Sometimes, finding a discreet and welcoming place to make a phone call can be the first step toward healing. By turning everyday community spaces—like shops, libraries, or cafés—into points of connection, the Porchlight Project makes it easier for survivors to reach the resources they need.
A Community Effort
The strength of the Porchlight Project lies in collaboration. Our Voice and Helpmate are working together to train staff, provide signage, and build a growing network of caring spaces across Buncombe County. Each participating business becomes part of a community-wide commitment to compassion, dignity, and hope.
One early partner, Asheville Hotel Group, shared why they joined without hesitation:
“We couldn’t partner with the Porchlight Project quick enough. As a locally owned business, it’s our responsibility to ensure our community has a place to turn. Helping others is our way of life.” – Asheville Hotel Group
Partnerships like these ensure that the Porchlight Project is more than an idea—it’s a lived reality across our community.
Get Involved
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If you own or manage a business, you can join the Porchlight Project and become part of this growing network of welcoming locations. Training and materials are simple, and the impact is profound.
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If you’re a community member, you can help spread the word. Let others know that discreet and caring locations are available, and that no one has to face violence alone.
Visit www.porchlightprojectnc.org to learn more, find participating locations, or start the process of becoming a Porchlight partner.