Domestic violence is an issue that touches all parts of society, with the victims, especially women and children, often suffering alone and in silence. That’s why it gave all of us at the Tariq Farid Foundation such a tremendous feeling to be able to deliver a grant recently to support the Prudence Crandall Center (PCC), the oldest domestic violence program in Connecticut.
My wife, Asma, joined Tariq Farid Foundation Director Kelly Hebrank for a tour of PCC’s facility in New Britain. Asma was impressed by the passion and commitment of the staff, praising them for offering hope and a way forward for families that sometimes have nowhere else to turn. She especially was thankful for the attention and care they provide to children.
The good news is that there are organizations such as PCC available for those who need a refuge. The bad news is that PCC has been operating at 125% capacity over the past year, which has put a tremendous strain on their staff and program resources.
Last year alone, PCC sheltered 154 individuals including children. In addition to an Emergency Shelter, PCC offers a continuum of services, including a 24-hour Helpline, eight transitional living apartments where victims and their children may stay for up to two years; 20 units of permanent supportive housing; court advocacy for victims of family violence crimes; and community education and other services.
Through all their programs, PCC touches the lives of 8,000 adults and children each year.
We believe that everyone should be able to live free from chronic fear and violence, able to pursue their dreams and care for their families.
We applaud the work that they are doing at the PCC and I encourage you to visit the organization’s website at www.prudencecrandall.org to learn more about the important work they are doing, including information on how to sign up for a Hope Tour or how to donate money or in-kind items such as school uniforms and household goods. To access the 24-hour Helpline, call 860-225-6357 or toll-free 888-774-2900. All services are free and confidential.
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