SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Sarah B. Foulke Charitable Fund donated $400,000 to help Wellspring ensure privacy and special services for domestic abuse and sexual assault survivors at its Support Center, a dedicated wing of the new Wellspring building in Malta, off Northway Exit 12.
Wellspring’s Sarah B. Foulke Support Center has a separate private entrance, parking area and waiting room. Abuse victims can access Wellspring client services safely and with complete confidentiality.
To ensure client security, the Support Center entrance has a receptionist and full security system, including a panic button to call the police should an emergency arise, and locked doors that separate it from the more public areas of the Wellspring building.
The pandemic has propelled a rise in domestic abuse. The number of domestic violence incidents in Saratoga County in 2021 rose 22% over the five-year average, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office.
Wellspring helps domestic and sexual abuse survivors according to their specific need. Someone escaping violence late at night with children may need immediate shelter. A sexual assault victim may need accompaniment and a ride to a hospital. All may need help rebuilding their lives.
Sarah B. Foulke, a Saratoga Springs attorney and member of Soroptimist International of Saratoga County, volunteered for Project Hope and Power, Wellspring’s financial literacy program designed to help clients learn how to be financially independent.
Wellspring’s 24/7 hotline provides immediate advice and assistance. Anyone who finds themselves in an abusive situation at home can call Wellspring’s hotline for advice or immediate assistance, 24 hours per day, seven days a week: 518-584-8188. The Wellspring Sarah B. Foulke Support Center is open Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and after-hours for classes like Project Hope and Power.
Wellspring serves all of Saratoga County. For more information visit wellspringcares.org.
