Why Berks Women in Crisis is Important to us

Mission Statement

Berks Women in Crisis provides a safe haven and ongoing support system for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Our advocacy and education programs increase awareness and promote the prevention of domestic violence, sexual assault, and all forms of oppression.

Vision Statement
Our vision is to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault in Berks County.

Client Success Story 

Client came to shelter with her 3 children. She had left a Domestic Violence and Sexual violence situation with a husband who abused her for 17 years. Abuser also physically abused the oldest daughter.

While in shelter client was referred to the BWIC legal department for a PFA for herself and her oldest daughter, she was also referred to BWIC counseling for her and all 3 daughters.

The husband in the relationship was very controlling leaving the client feeling helpless and alone. With the help of her counselor in the Safe House she was educated about all the possible resources in the community that were available to her.

She then pursued all the options the Department of Public Welfare had to offer; she received cash, medical and Food stamps. Client was granted a final PFA for her and her oldest daughter and she felt protected and free. Client began to feel empowered by all the strides she had made, she was now ready to take the next step and she transitioned to the BWIC Bridge house.

In the Bridge house client began learning the tools necessary for self-sufficiency. These tools included budgeting, time management and the life skills needed to run a household.

Client continued to grow and once again transitioned to the next stage. BWIC collaborated with the Salvation Army to help client get subsidy and support while moving into the BWIC transitional Housing. In this program client was able to enroll in ESL classes and began volunteering with the Hispanic Center. Client gained confidence with her cooking skills and began cooking for the elderly as part of her volunteer work. She was so successful she was offered employment.

Client is now residing in her own home safely with her 3 daughters.

Join us Friday, November 18th 6p.m. for a Donation Yoga Class that benefits BWIC Holiday Party. 

 

Learn more about this empowering local organization at www.berkswomenincrisis.org