Women’s Transitional Care Services is ramping up its fundraising efforts at a time when use of its domestic violence shelter is at capacity and expected to grow.

“The summer is our most difficult time, and we need to ensure that we can cover the shelter and other services,” said Ellen Sward, board president for the nonprofit agency.

WTCS serves women and children experiencing domestic abuse in Douglas, Franklin and southern Jefferson counties. The shelter is operating at full capacity, with more than 30 women and children living there. The agency also provides advocacy, therapy and wellness programs for women and children in need.

The agency has seen a 9 percent increase in the number of services it provided from July 2008 through March 2009, compared with the same time period a year earlier, Sward said. The agency also is reducing program costs over the summer to make ends meet.

The goal is to raise $250,000 through “immediate donations from local businesses and individuals” to establish a reserve fund and pay off debt, agency leaders said. They’re asking for donations of any size.

“We have not been as focused on community fundraising as other nonprofits in the community have,” Sward said.

While income at the shelter has been increasing in the last few years, Sward said grant funds are restricted and can only be used for specific purposes. Money is also needed to cover overhead costs, which are increasing.

“We hope the community will recognize the value of our services,” Sward said. “Our priority is ensuring that our shelter and services remain available to those members of the community who need them.”