Revised October 9, 2023
Domestic violence can take many forms: physical violence, sexual abuse, rape, emotional abuse, economic deprivation, threats and intimidation, isolation, and manipulation. Any situation where a partner repeatedly exerts or wields power and control over the other is abuse. This is a crime that knows no boundaries in our communities – it affects all socioeconomic levels, ethnicities, genders, ages, neighborhoods and regions.
Here at The Women’s Center, we provide a welcoming, healing environment and the safety, space, and support needed for victims of domestic and sexual violence, including trafficking, in order to start the healing process. Many of our clients are experiencing a crisis when they first reach out to us — they may be facing immediate danger from their abuser or struggling with the effects of the abuse and violence they’ve endured. We provide immediate crisis intervention, help determine a plan for safety, and ensure that all basic needs are met. We know that victims often need much more than just a safe place to stay to work through the harmful effects of domestic violence, so we do whatever we can to make sure we are providing any and all resources needed to assist them.
Some of the ways we help our clients succeed beyond immediate safety and shelter:
- Working with them to secure, safe, affordable housing, either in one of our 10 transitional living units or other housing options.
- Equipping them with the tools and life skills necessary to find a living-wage job
- Connecting them with resources to help them address physical and mental health needs
- Providing ongoing support in navigating the criminal and civil justice systems through court accompaniments, assistance in filing restraining orders, etc.
- Support groups and workshops
- Crisis intervention
- Family support programs to teach survivors about healthy communication and positive parenting techniques
- Employment and life skills training, financial empowerment and personal development
- Free onsite childcare while participating in any of these services.
- Our Youth Advocates provide mirrored programming for child survivors to help them adjust to their new environment if in shelter or transitional living, develop strategies for maintaining safety, help with homework, and assist in whatever other ways they can to keep our youngest clients on a path toward healthy development. We also plan fun family activities every week and special field trips throughout the year to help families strengthen relationships with one another.
- And much more.
Our 24-Hour Hotline is always available and always answered no matter the time or day, with immediate help and information provided by Advocates who are trained to assist with any and every question and concern. If you or someone you know needs help, call our Hotline at 262.542.3828. Anytime.