There is unfortunately a growing problem of domestic violence and abuse in the Haitian and Caribbean communities. It rears its ugly head in many different forms physically, emotionally and psychologically and the scar it produces is traumatic and harmful. The reasons for this malady are many. To address this growing problem, HCC developed in 2000 the Family Violence Prevention and Intervention Program.
It is a pioneering initiative in its 6th year. During this time, we have accumulated an in-depth knowledge and insight in serving immigrant women. They are very often women of color who are victims of domestic violence in the Haitian, Caribbean and African communities. Our program addresses the unmet need while filling the growing gap in domestic violence services to the French-speaking African and Haitian Creole speaking community. To complement our program, we also participate in a collaboration of community-based organizations at the Family Justice Center. It is sponsored by the NYC’s DYCD and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office while being funded by the U.S. Dept. of Justice.
We have assisted, connected and educated over 600 individuals and their families with prevention information, counseling, and advocacy as well as referrals to shelters, medical and legal services. Our program consistently receives referrals from various partner agencies. We are also very proud that our support group is successful as it convinced women to volunteer and conduct peer-to-peer outreach and education. The primary message to women, especially immigrant women of color, is - become more informed and educated; there is help for you and your children.
In addition to prevention/intervention activities, like escorting our clients to the police to file a report or offering emotional support or safety planning, we have helped women and their families find housing, facilitate benefits assistance and information on how to adjust to their adoptive environment. Other important services include job training/placement and independent living skills.
In another important area, HCC has developed a culturally appropriate and effective parenting skills curriculum and models for peer education and social mobilization that support female parents as well as survivors of domestic violence. Lastly, over 20 different types of information workshops were developed on domestic violence where over 120 women received training to improve their parenting skills while enabling them to adapt to mainstream child-rearing practices.
If you know someone who could benefit from our Family Violence Prevention and Intervention Program or would like more information, please call Gisele Josme at 718.940.5277 or e-mail her at GJosme@hccinc.org.
Please remember – if you know someone who may be a victim of domestic violence or abuse, suggest to her or him to seek a safe space or help from a qualified professional as soon as possible. If there is imminent danger, please urge them to telephone the NYC Police at 911 immediately or if they prefer, call the Family Justice Center at 718.250.5070.