Women In Distress History

Edee Greene and a group of concerned citizens founded Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc. (WID) in July, 1974. WID began as Broward County's first refuge for homeless women in a modest four-bedroom home on Sistrunk Boulevard.

After enduring a brutal beating at the hands of her spouse, a young Broward mother sought sanctuary at WID. At the time, WID was not licensed to accept children and the woman's two children were placed in temporary foster care while she stayed at the shelter. The separation from her children proved unbearable for the young mother and soon thereafter she returned home with her little ones in tow. Just one week later, she was brutally shot and murdered by her spouse, as her children witnessed this unspeakable act of violence.

Shortly after this tragedy, the agency's founders were able to purchase the current 54 bed shelter with generous contributions from Dr. Kona and Ruth Simon, and Walter and Peg Griffith. For the first time, WID was able to offer crisis shelter and support to victims of domestic violence and their children, as well as homeless women.

In November 1995, the doors of the Jim & Jan Moran Family Center opened. The Family Center instantly increased WID's visibility, accessibility and capacity to serve more families. Over the years, WID services have evolved and expanded to include counseling, legal aid, job training, a volunteer program and a thrift store. WID also provides continuing education to law enforcement, health care, social service and justice system professionals.

In 1999 Janet A. Boyle, established a $1 million endowment for Women In Distress that will ensure future operations of our organization. Janet's generosity has established a legacy benefiting Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc., its participants and employees for future generations.

As Broward County's only certified domestic violence center, it is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that every woman and child who has the courage to seek help, will be able to receive it. Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it's the only thing that ever has."