For 50 years, WomenShelter of Long Beach has been a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence — available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone who needs it. And despite what its name might suggest, that means everyone. Regardless of gender, background or circumstance, WSLB's doors are open.
As the organization approaches its golden anniversary in 2027, its leadership is focused on one thing: ensuring more people know they're there.
"We're more than the name," says Executive Director Kent Wallace-Meggs. "People look at our name and don't know that we're more than a shelter. They don't know that we serve people of all backgrounds."
Meeting People Where They Are
One of the nonprofit’s most pressing priorities is reaching populations most in need of its services. Long Beach's Cambodian community — the largest outside of Cambodia itself — is one of those populations. Last October, WSLB was awarded a federal Health and Human Services demonstration grant to develop a peer-to-peer youth education program specifically within that community — one that accounts for generational trauma, immigration hardship and cultural barriers to seeking help.
"...they bring the [trauma] and all of that with them," Wallace-Meggs explains. "And then also so many other untold stories — just [in] the journey to get here."
This holistic philosophy is at the core of how WSLB approaches its mission. For Wallace-Meggs, serving the whole person begins with the environment he creates for his staff and clients alike. "What do I feel when I walk through the front door? What's the vibe? Are people glad to be here? Are they feeling supported?"
The Youth Conference — and a Survivor's Story
WSLB recently held its ninth annual youth conference, which Board President Mike Vela called the best one yet. Student performers from Interact, a social justice drama troupe at Cal State Long Beach, role-played real-life scenarios — how to say no firmly and recognize red flags — while parents sat in the audience learning alongside their teens.
The keynote speaker was April Hernandez-Castillo, an author, speaker and actress best known for her role in the movie “Freedom Writers.” Hernandez-Castillo brought a rare authenticity to the room: the woman who once portrayed a trauma-laden Long Beach high school student in a story many in the audience could identify with was now sharing her own survivor story with them.
"There weren't very many dry eyes in the house," Vela recalls.
Why Community Support Matters Now
Prevention and education are only part of the picture. For those already in crisis, WSLB serves clients from intake through case management, with stays typically ranging from 30 to 45 days. A new transitional housing program is in development to address one of the biggest barriers survivors face in moving forward.
"Give them more time to come up with a solid long-term game plan," Wallace-Meggs says, "instead of feeling rushed to figure your whole life out in 30 to 45 days."
With federal funding uncertain and demand for services growing, the mission has never been more urgent. "The need is not decreasing," says Vela. "More people are becoming aware that we're here — and we have to have the money to be able to serve them."
The gala honoree this year? A 6-year-old boy who donates his lemonade stand earnings to the shelter. It's that kind of community spirit — across generations and backgrounds — that WSLB is counting on as it heads into its next 50 years.
To learn more or get involved, visit womenshelterlb.org. If you or someone you know needs help, call the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at (562) 437-4663