Community Advocacy Program

Community Advocacy Program

Serving communities since 1995.

In Fiscal Year 2024, The Center for Community Health Education Research and Service, Inc. (CCHERS) supported Family Advocates in serving 547 survivors of domestic violence. These essential services were delivered on-site at community health centers, including Codman Square Community Health Center, DOT House, Mattapan Community Health Center, and Uphams Community Cares.

CCHERS played a critical role in ensuring survivors had access to comprehensive support. This included personal safety planning, emotional support, referrals, advocacy and accompaniment, support groups, and provider training to enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals to respond effectively to domestic violence.

Collaboration was key to these efforts. CCHERS worked closely with a network of dedicated organizations, including the Vietnamese American Civic Association (VACA), the Cape Verdean Association of Boston (CVAB), and the Association of Haitian Women Boston. Legal and immigration resources were provided in partnership with Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS), the Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI), Rosie’s Place, and the Women’s Bar Fund.

Through partnerships with the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA) and the Immigration Justice Clinic at Northeastern University, CCHERS helped to address the unique challenges faced by immigrant survivors. The Center of Boston Teaching Hospitals (COBTH) Domestic Violence Council, along with the guidance and expertise of Jane Doe Inc., further enhanced the collaborative impact, ensuring a multi-faceted approach to survivor support.

These collective efforts reflect CCHERS’ unwavering commitment to fostering safe, equitable, and supportive communities through education, research, and service.