Light the Way Nears $2 Million as Campaign Enters Second Year

When Lumina Alliance launched the Light the Way Lifeline Campaign in 2025, the goal was clear: ensure survivors in San Luis Obispo County continue to have access to safety, healing, and support during a time of growing financial uncertainty.

As the campaign enters its second year, we're proud to share an important milestone. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the campaign has now raised more than $1.9 million toward its $5 million goal.

This achievement represents far more than dollars raised. It means survivors continue to find safety in an emergency shelter. It means families are moving into stable housing after experiencing violence. It means a child is receiving therapy, a survivor is finding support through advocacy, and a late-night call to our 24/7 Crisis & Information Line is being answered when someone needs help most.

For more than 45 years, Lumina Alliance and its organizational predecessors have provided life-changing, often life-saving services for those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence. But as government funding becomes increasingly uncertain, sustaining these services requires stronger community investment. Historically, nearly 50% of Lumina Alliance's budget has been supported through federal, state, and local funding sources. The Light the Way campaign was created to help bridge that gap and ensure survivors can continue accessing support when they need it most.

The need remains significant.

According to national statistics, an estimated 63,000 women in San Luis Obispo County have experienced sexual violence, and nearly 13,000 children are potentially exposed to domestic violence during their lifetime. Housing insecurity adds another layer of challenge, with 61% of female renters considered rent-burdened and 25% of single women with children living in poverty. For survivors seeking safety, these realities can create tremendous barriers to leaving abusive situations and rebuilding their lives.

The success of the campaign has been made possible through the leadership and generosity of many community members and organizations. We are deeply grateful to the individuals, businesses, foundations, and partners who have stepped forward to invest in this work. Their support reflects a shared belief that every survivor deserves access to safety, stability, and lasting healing.

We are especially grateful to our campaign leadership supporters, including AFX Research, Ann Robinson, CoVelop, Inc., Dave and Sharon Juhnke, Debby and Steve Nicklas, Greg and Carrie Sanders, Jill LeMieux, Lisa Mackenzie, Ron and Adrienne Vyse, Rudy and Jackie Bachmann, Sheila and Russ Levanway, and the Wacker Family. We also extend our sincere appreciation to MUST! Charities for their ongoing partnership and commitment to strengthening our community.

While reaching $1.9 million is a remarkable achievement, the work continues. More than $3 million remains to reach the campaign's $5 million goal, and community support remains essential to sustaining the programs survivors rely on every day.

Every contribution helps ensure that someone seeking safety has a place to turn. Every gift helps strengthen a future where healing is possible.

Together, we are lighting the way.

To learn more about the Light the Way Lifeline Campaign or make a contribution, visit LuminaAlliance.org/donate.