Through its direct service division, the Office for Women offers domestic violence advocacy, outreach and education to Spanish-speaking women through its Hispanic Outreach/Advocacy Program.
Bicultural and bilingual advocates provide comprehensive services that include counseling and support in domestic violence cases; court accompaniment; safety planning; assistance in preparing and filing Family Court petitions; financial planning; community education; assistance in applying for public assistance; legal education; translation; referrals; evidence collection; and shelter placement. Community education to the Hispanic community is also provided.
The Office for Women offers domestic violence liaisons to the Hispanic community. Bilingual and bicultural staff is on call with the Family Court Legal Program in both White Plains and Yonkers.
The program began in 2002. This population requires unique services as a result of the language barrier between the Hispanic community and service providers; cultural dynamics and immigration issues.