On Feburary 23rd IMPACT had the opportunity to present at the Massachusetts Governor's Council to Address Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. Since 2006 we have been part of a homeless shelter program collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance Domestic Violence Unit, HarborCOV and Homes for Families. Project SAFE helps homeless parents develop the skills to advocate for themselves and their families in stressful situations ranging from achieving financial stability to talking to elected officials to immediate danger. Graduates of Project SAFE have the opportunity for paid internships and support for finding permanent employment. Four of them have found permanent jobs in our organizations and are intimately involved in teaching Project SAFE to other homeless shelter residents.
Graduates Amanda Hoeg and Stella Lopes shared their stories before a room of leaders in the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence community and across the board people were moved and inspired.
Amanda & Stella Presenting with Domestic Violence Unit Director Janet Fender
Amanda and Stella with Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray
Photos by Ana Reyes
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