Elizabeth Freeman Center Inc.

The Elizabeth Freeman Center Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services and support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Established in 1974, it serves the communities of Berkshire County and surrounding areas.

History

The organization began as the merger of two grassroots initiatives, the Women Services Center and the Rape Crisis Center, which were established in 1974 and 1976, respectively. These two organizations combined in 1997 and were renamed in honor of Elizabeth Freeman, a local historical figure known for her courageous fight for freedom from slavery.

Mission and Vision

The Elizabeth Freeman Center offers hope, help, and healing to those affected by domestic and sexual violence through free, accessible, and confidential services. Its mission includes promoting social justice and working to end all forms of oppression that perpetuate violence. The organization envisions a world free from domestic and sexual violence, where all people live with safety, dignity, and justice.

Services

The Elizabeth Freeman Center provides a comprehensive range of services, including:

• 24/7 Hotline: A toll-free hotline available for immediate support and assistance.
• Emergency Services: Provision of emergency shelter, food, transportation, and safe phones to help survivors flee violent situations.
• Counseling and Advocacy: Individual and group counseling sessions, as well as legal advocacy services to support survivors in obtaining necessary resources and protections.
• Specialized Support: Services tailored for specific populations, such as immigrants, LGBTQ individuals, child survivors, and those with disabilities.
• Pet Foster Care: A "SafePet" program offering foster care for pets when violence interrupts their care.
• Community Education and Outreach: Programs aimed at preventing teen dating violence and promoting community awareness about domestic and sexual violence.

Impact

Annually, the Elizabeth Freeman Center serves nearly 5,000 individuals across almost every city and town in Berkshire County. It shelters over 150 adults and children fleeing violence, assists hundreds in obtaining protection orders, and provides counseling and advocacy to over 1,300 adults and children. Additionally, it conducts extensive community outreach and prevention programs, impacting nearly 2,000 children and youth each year.

Philosophy

The organization operates with a survivor-centered approach, respecting each individual's autonomy and decision-making process. It believes in the importance of community involvement in ending domestic and sexual violence and advocates for systemic changes to promote social justice and equity.