24/7 Service: Select Option #2

The Cocoon FAQs

We understand that you may have questions about who we serve, what you can and cannot bring to the shelter, cost of services, how you can help, etc. We are here to help. Here are our most commonly asked questions. If you have any additional questions please contact us at 419-373-1730

NO. The Cocoon serves ALL survivors of domestic and sexual violence regardless of gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. To talk with an advocate call 419-373-1730 and select option #2. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

YES. Children under 18 are welcome in shelter with a legal parent or guardian who is at least 18 years of age. Pets are welcome in shelter for the duration of their family’s stay and can stay right in the family’s suite as long as they can be integrated safely into a community environment. Alternative options can be discussed with an advocate.

NO. The Cocoon provides community-based services to more than 90% of the survivors that we work with. All programs and services available to those residing in shelter are available to those who have safe, alternative housing options.
$0.00, The Cocoon provides all programming and services, including emergency safe shelter, at no cost to survivors and their children no matter how much or how little they access any of the services or programs.

We encourage family, friends, and co-workers to call our 24/7 crisis line for support and guidance at 419-373-1730, option #2.

United Way’s 2-1-1 is a free service provided to the public and operators can assist with finding shelter, food pantries, financial support options, and much more. Just dial 2-1-1 to reach them.
YES! We love spreading awareness and educating the community at large about domestic and sexual violence, who we are and who we serve, and how we can all be integral in creating a society that no longer tolerates violence. Call 419-373-1730, ext. 1002 for more information. All presentations are provided at no cost.

Financial assistance is the most crucial to ensure that programs and services remain available at no cost to survivors and their children.

Online donations can be made by visiting our Online Donations Portal; by mail at The Cocoon, PO Box 1165, Bowling Green, OH 43402; or by phone at 419-373-1730, ext. 1002.

Also consider volunteering your time. Volunteer opportunities can be viewed by visiting: Volunteer Opportunities.

Any basic personal care items such as shampoo, conditioner, liquid laundry detergent, toilet paper, etc. All items must be unopened and full sized. Each week we curate an Amazon Wishlist with the top items that we currently need. 

The Cocoon does not accept clothing, shoes, furniture, household items, books, or toys unless there is an immediate need. The next question and answer will provide you with information on where you can take those types of items. 

The Cocoon is unable to accept these items unless there is an immediate need due to limited storage space. We recommend:

  • Clothing
    • The Fringe at Woodland Mall – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-806-4907
    • First Presbyterian Church – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-352-5176
  • Furniture
    • First Presbyterian Church – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-352-5176
    • Epworth Furniture Ministry – Toledo
      • Phone: 419-531-4236
    • St. Mark’s Lutheran Church – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-353-9305
  • Books, Puzzles, and Board Games
    • Grounds For Thought – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-354-3266
      • Note: Please ask them to credit The Cocoon’s account and survivors will be able to use that credit towards items at the store. 
  • Baby and Children’s Items (Bottles, Diapers, Formula, Furniture, and Toys)
    • WIC – Bowling Green
      • Phone: 419-354-9147

All drop offs must be made by appointment, Monday through Friday from 9 AM until 4 PM. To make an appointment call 419-373-1730, ext. 1003. Items cannot be accepted outside of these hours and should not be left on premises. Items left outside are subject to weather damage and theft.