The expanded service will provide continued support to survivors of domestic violence
CONTACT:
Tia Lewis
Communications Specialist
301-952-4140
(Upper Marlboro, Md. – December 19, 2016) Research shows that domestic violence victims are able to better manage their trauma through a continuum of responses or multiple interventions over time. This proactive approach, which is created to provide an outlet of ongoing dialogue for the victim, is instrumental in allowing survivors to re-establish control of their identity and ownership in their lives. As a catalyst to assist this need, the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center (PGCFJC) is pleased to announce the Stay In Touch (SIT) program, a self-empowering support group for survivors of domestic violence.
Participants in the program will receive in-depth support from a staff of certified specialists who are dedicated to helping participants effectively address their urgent care needs and design a practical timeline to regain their independence. Additionally, each participant will receive resources to help them understand the importance of victim safety in protecting themselves and their children. The SIT program will complement existing advocacy support with the creation of a safe space and confidential environment where survivors can be heard, understood and believed.
“The Stay In Touch program is a great tool to aid and treat victims of domestic violence,” said the Honorable Sheila R. Tillerson Adams, Administrative Judge for Prince George’s County. “Prince George’s County Family Justice Center’s Director Denise C. McCain and the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center team continues to effectively contribute to the support services and provide meaningful steps to manage this traumatic experience.”
The bi-weekly SIT support sessions are scheduled to begin in January 2017. Each session will be facilitated by a counselor from the Family Justice Center with guest speakers attending based on the needs of the group members. Participants must be current or former clients of the Family Justice Center. Sessions will be limited to 15 participants.
“The PGCFJC decided to implement this program with the understanding that survivors of domestic violence frequently face challenges when seeking help in making the decision to leave an abusive relationship,” added Mrs. McCain. “Our goal is to help survivors remain safe and free of abuse with the provisions of ongoing support, reassurance and encouragement in the aftermath of abuse. This is particularly relevant as survivors are in greater danger when attempting to flee these abusive relationships.”
For further information about the Stay In Touch program, contact Barbara Harvard, Special Victims Advocate at 301-952-4425 or bharvard@co.pg.md.us
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ABOUT: The Prince George’s County Family Justice Center is a “one stop shop,” multi-disciplinary service center for Prince George’s County. The PGCFJC provides an array of co-located services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, elderly abuse and teen relationship violence.