Grants help fund Women’s Resource Center’s Mental Health Services

March 12, 2025 | Sarasota

The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) has received two significant grants from Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast). These funds will advance WRC’s mission to empower women and families in Southwest Florida by addressing critical challenges in mental health and community resource accessibility.

Expanding Mental Health and Wellness Services

A $10,000 grant will fund 100 hours of affordable mental health counseling for low-income women in Sarasota County. With 66% of female-headed households in Sarasota living below a sustainable wage, access to mental health care remains one of the community’s most pressing needs. WRC offers counseling on a sliding scale, making these essential services accessible to underserved women.

“This grant will directly support women facing significant emotional and financial challenges,” said Ashley Brown, WRC’s President and CEO. “Mental health counseling is a cornerstone of our programming, enabling women to address underlying barriers and achieve stability.”

Enhancing Community Resource Navigation

A second grant of $7,000 will support WRC’s Resource Advising Program, focusing on underserved areas, including North Port and Charlotte County. This program connects individuals to critical resources, addressing barriers such as childcare, housing, and employment. The funds will expand partnerships and outreach efforts, increasing access to WRC’s network of over 250 community resources.

“Resource advising is often the first step toward transformation for our clients,” said Brown. “With this funding, we can deepen our impact in North Port and Charlotte County, ensuring more women and families have access to the support they need.”

“Mental health is a top priority for Gulf Coast Community Foundation as we strive for thriving communities with opportunities for all. We support the access to critical resources that strengthen families and build a bright region,” said Gulf Coast’s President and CEO Phillip Lanham.

“We are proud to support Women’s Resource Center as they transform the lives of women of all generations and provide programs that will positively impact families in our community.”

Measurable Impact

The funding will enable WRC to achieve specific, measurable outcomes:

· Deliver 100 hours of mental health counseling to underserved women.

· Increase partnerships with community organizations in North Port and Charlotte County.

· Track client progress using WRC’s data management system to ensure effective service delivery.

For more information about WRC and its programs, visit www.mywrc.org.