Mission Statement:
The Shifa Women’s Center is committed to ending violence against
South-Asian women through prevention, intervention, outreach, and
advocacy. We help those hurt by violence to heal and empower
themselves so that women, children and men may lead safe and healthy
lives.
About Us:
Domestic
violence is physical abuse or emotional abuse that takes place in a
home. Overwhelmingly, victims are women. We act as a resource referral
for South Asian victims of domestic violence.
South Asians are less likely to seek help from mainstream service
agencies, due to cultural and language barriers. These barriers may
include:
-
lack of fluency
in the English language
-
lack of family
or friends in the U.S.
-
threats to
immigration status
-
lack of
knowledge about existing legal protection, immigration laws, and
service agencies
-
religious
beliefs or cultural practices not understood by other Americans.
Houston Shifa Women’s Center provides
a
sympathetic ear, intervention if the situation is life-threatening,
liaisons with police; maintains a list of legal resources, helps
victims find doctors, lawyers, child care, safe homes, and jobs;
assists them on a daily basis with groceries or transportation;
provides moral support through constant contact, and organizes
fundraisers in the South Asian community to provide for the victim's
needs.
Our Safety Tips
page has very important tips for you if you are a victim
of abuse or in fear.
Click to go to our safety tips page.
