Opening the Door to Independence

Door Step Project Supports Survivors in Williamson County

The journey from crisis to independence for survivors of domestic violence doesn’t end when they leave a shelter-it’s only the beginning. That’s where Door Step Project steps in, offering a bridge between emergency shelter and long-term stability.

Founded in 2017, Door Step Project was created to address a critical gap for survivors leaving Bridges Domestic Violence Center, the county’s only domestic violence shelter. As Director Linda Crockett explains, “Survivors were leaving the shelter and were unable to afford housing in Williamson County near supportive family members and children’s schools.” Without affordable options, many were forced to relocate or, in some cases, return to unsafe environments.

Through a unique partnership with Bridges, families transitioning into Door Step homes continue working with the same case managers and accessing the same services they relied on during their shelter stay. These include counseling, court advocacy, group support, and assistance with everyday needs. This continuity of care ensures that survivors are not starting over; they are building forward. “The clients have the same case managers and access to the same resources throughout their journey with Bridges and Door Step,” Linda says. “Support staff members know each person’s entire journey through shelter to independence.”

The program offers interim transitional housing for up to twelve months. Families pay rent based on a sliding scale, typically thirty percent of their income, but with a powerful twist: Seventy-five percent of that rent is quietly placed into an escrow account. When participants successfully complete the program, maintain their home, and meet goals with their case manager, those funds are returned to them. This gives families a financial cushion as they move into permanent housing, often covering deposits and moving expenses.

Since its founding, Door Step Project has served forty-four women and forty-five children. Today, it owns two homes and is expanding through lease-purchase agreements, with the goal of housing up to six families at a time to meet growing community needs.

Beyond housing, the program focuses on long-term independence. Case managers work closely with participants on budgeting, job readiness, and career advancement. Survivors gain hands-on experience managing a household, balancing finances, and building stability, all essential for lasting success.

The impact is profound. Families who once felt they had nowhere to turn are now thriving, supporting their children, pursuing education, and contributing to the community. Children, who are also survivors, benefit from remaining in their schools and social networks, helping restore a sense of safety and normalcy.

Affordable housing remains one of the biggest challenges in Williamson County, making programs like Door Step Project essential. Without it, many survivors face impossible choices that can lead them back into harmful situations.

Community support plays a key role in sustaining and expanding this mission. Residents can help by spreading awareness, attending events, donating supplies, or contributing financially. Local businesses also make a difference through sponsorships, volunteer efforts, and in-kind donations. One of their events, Funny for Funds Comedy Fundraiser, is coming up on May 15^th at the Franklin Elk’s Lodge. Tickets can be purchased at doorstepproject.org.

Door Step Project is more than a housing program; it’s a pathway to independence, dignity, and hope. With continued community support, it will keep opening doors for families who need it most.

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Learn more at doorstepproject.org, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Funny for Funds event.