We regret that we cannot process requests directly from individuals needing assistance. If you are a validator, please click here for our request form. You can find a checklist of details we need to consider a request here. Womenaid was founded with the belief that members of our community want to help, but often aren't aware of the small needs that individuals or families face. By bringing together those that wish to help strengthen and stabilize their community with those in need, Womenaid serves to redefine "extended family" to include friends, neighbors and members of the general community.
We entertain requests for assistance from community validators – for example, social services, a guidance counselor or a school nurse. Validators provide us with information with which we can determine whether Womenaid is the appropriate source of assistance and then vote as a Board on that request. We can assist with funding up to $500; this allows us to help where a little bit of money will make a significant impact. We raise our monies in large part due to what we now call "house parties" or gatherings, in addition to a few Board initiated events each year. House parties occur when someone who is moved by the work we do wants to combine having a party with helping Womenaid raise additional funds. Part of our mission is to bring people together – and we've been heartened to be a part of many gatherings where neighbors met neighbors for the first time.
We support the geographic area defined by the Portsmouth High School district. That is, we prioritize our assistance to people and families in Portsmouth, New Castle, Newington, Rye, Greenland and Kittery, ME. We will consider out of area requests on a case by case basis.
We are not a long-term solution. We fulfill short-term needs that may make a difference in the quality of someone's life, in the interest of stronger community. We want to help take care of our neighbors, friends, and their children.