This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Safe Shelter of St. Vrain Valley has launched a mobile advocacy services project that has been designed to expand its public awareness and free confidential services to survivors of domestic violence (DV) with the help of its community partners. The program will focus on members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community, seniors, people with disabilities and those who identify as Latin@. “Through this initiative, we will be reaching a greater number of folks who all too often remain invisible victims of abuse,” said Safe Shelter’s Development Director. Program partners include Out Boulder County, Longmont Senior Center, Center for People With Disabilities (CPWD) and El Comité de Longmont.
There is no question that relationship abuse occurs within these populations, but each face barriers to recognizing, reporting or both.” Seniors and folks with disabilities are often vulnerable and dependent upon caregivers while many Latin@s may be fearful or do not know their rights as victims. Relationship abuse occurs in LGBTQ relationships at roughly the same rate as that in straight relationships, yet DV victims in same-sex relationships are currently not receiving the support they need. Safe Shelter will be offering quality services in an environment that is familiar and safe in an effort to break down as many barriers as possible for accessing services.
As part of this initiative, a Safe Shelter Advocate will provide a regular weekly presence at the Longmont Out Boulder County (OBC) office as well as the other three partner offices, increasing access to safety planning, crisis intervention, support, education, and community referrals for individuals of all gender identity or sexual orientation impacted by relationship abuse. Advocates will also meet with individuals at other locations of their choosing to ensure anonymity, safety or other considerations.
Cross training between agencies will enable Safe Shelter to expand its community education efforts to help Out Boulder County, CPWD, Senior Center and El Comité staff understand the complexities of DV dynamics; recognize signs of abuse; understand the devastating impact of DV on children; learn about legal responses designed to protect survivors; and learn about the expertise available to their clients through Safe Shelter services.
All services will be confidential, free of charge, and available in English and Spanish. Interpreters will be provided for survivors who speak other languages. An onsite advocate will be available on Tuesdays at the Out Boulder office at 630 Main Street, Longmont. Look for an Advocate on Fridays at the Senior Center and Thursdays at El Comité. For more information about OBC and the hours available to meet with an Advocate, call (720) 600-4138.
This is a press release issued by the Safe Shelter of St. Vrain Valley and is published here as a public service.
