If you have been around awhile you might remember I used to have a series called Fantastic Philanthropy Fridays where I would highlight local charities that I wanted to showcase based on their amazing work. With everything going on in the world I thought it would be a great time to start that series again. I can’t wait to share some local and national organizations that deserve more sukkort and hopefully can help show you all ways to contribute.
I have a couple of really awesome organizations to share with you this month. The first one is SafeHaven of Tarrant County.
I wanted to share SafeHaven as my kick off Philanthropy Fridays with you because at the time we are in being at home isn’t always a safe place for someone. SafeHaven’s mission is to end domestic violence through safety, support, prevention and social change.
SafeHaven is the largest and most comprehensive agency in Tarrant County providing services at no cost to domestic violence victims. SafeHaven provides 24-hour care at two emergency shelters and transitional housing to families seeking their first taste of independence. Clients under the care of SafeHaven receive counseling, legal services, case management and so much more. Trained bilingual advocates respond 24 hours a day to victims who call SafeHaven’s toll-free crisis hotline (1-877-701-7233).
SafeHaven’s professional education staff provides domestic violence prevention programs to high school students throughout Tarrant County, and our Partner Abuse Intervention Program is truly changing the behaviors of former offenders.
Through our outreach, education, support services and prevention programs, we are making progress to end domestic violence right here in Tarrant
How to Help
There are so many ways to help. First, is to listen to someone. Below you will find tips on how to listen and help effectively. Second, purchase a shirt (or merchandise). Third, volunteer your time. You can also donate items they need or donate to Berry Good Buys.
How To Respond
- Listen and Believe: First and foremost, listen. It takes a lot of courage and strength to offer an outcry, so it’s important that outcry is met with a listening ear and open heart.
- Don’t Blame Her: Our culture has a common phrase we learn as children: it takes two to tango. In relationships marred by violence, it only takes one. There is nothing that justifies abuse, so don’t ask the victim what her role was in the incident. She already feels shame, and questioning her contribution only makes it worse.
- Offer Unconditional Support: Often, our gut instinct is to think, “If I were her, I’d just leave!” Victims know their abusers best, and likewise, know how to navigate their relationship best. It takes most victims between six and nine attempts to leave their abuser before that separation is permanent. Remind her that leaving the relationship is not a condition of your support.
- Let the Victim Guide Her Journey: Your friends has confided in you because she trusts you. Offer support and resources. Let her navigate the process of leaving. Give her SafeHaven’s 24-hour emergency hotline: (877) 701-7233.
- Call With Questions:SafeHaven operates the only domestic violence hotline for Tarrant County and has trained bilingual advocates who answer 24/7. The hotline number is (877) 701-7233.
Do you have a charity you love and would love for me to feature during Philanthropy Fridays? Let me know!
XOXO, Gabbing Ginger
Leave a Reply