In the latest episode of Uplifme’s Community Connection series, host Katrina sits down with Joanna Otero-Cruz, the Executive Director and President of Women Against Abuse, to shed light on the vital work they do and the impact they have on thousands of lives each year.
Watch the full interview here.
In the heart of Philadelphia, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant communities, lies a beacon of hope and support for those experiencing intimate partner violence: Women Against Abuse.
At the core of Women Against Abuse’s mission is a commitment to providing comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence. Through a continuum of care, they offer refuge, support, and empowerment to over ten thousand individuals annually. Operating the city’s only two safe havens with a hundred beds each, Women Against Abuse ensures confidentiality and security for both clients and staff, with twenty-four-hour security measures in place.
But their support extends far beyond shelter. With fifteen units of transitional housing and the city’s only legal center dedicated to domestic violence survivors, they offer holistic assistance, including legal advocacy and support in obtaining protection orders and navigating the complexities of the legal system.
During the interview, Joanna emphasizes the interconnectedness of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, highlighting the reality that these issues often overlap. Women Against Abuse collaborates with organizations like the Salvation Army and local law enforcement to ensure individuals in need have access to safe havens and essential services.
One of the most critical lifelines provided by Women Against Abuse is their twenty-four-hour hotline, accessible in a staggering one hundred and eighty languages. This hotline serves as a gateway to safety, offering immediate support, safety planning, and shelter information to those in crisis.
What sets Women Against Abuse apart is their unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Contrary to misconceptions, their services are available to all survivors, regardless of gender identity or expression. Moreover, through their Safer Curriculum, they engage with middle and high school students, educating them on healthy relationships and equipping them with the tools to recognize and prevent abuse before it occurs.
In the past year, Women Against Abuse has achieved significant milestones, including the completion of a $3.6 million renovation of one of their safe havens, ensuring that their facilities remain safe, comfortable, and equipped to meet the needs of survivors.
As the interview concludes, Joanna reflects on the resilience of survivors and the collective effort required to combat domestic violence. With unwavering dedication and a commitment to empowerment, Women Against Abuse continues to be a beacon of hope for survivors, providing not only safety and support but also a pathway to healing and independence.
In a world where intimate partner violence continues to affect countless lives, organizations like Women Against Abuse stand as pillars of strength, proving that through compassion, collaboration, and community support, we can create a world free from violence and abuse.
For more information on Women Against Abuse and their services, visit their website or call their twenty-four-hour hotline at 1-866-723-3014. Remember, help is always available, and no one has to face domestic violence alone.
To support Women Against Abuse please visit their website here.
About Community Connections: Uplifting the Work of the Non-Profit and Public Sectors
The “Community Connections” series aims to provide a deeper insight into the resources available for individuals in need. By engaging in intimate and insightful conversations with public and non-profit leaders, we strive to build trust and foster a greater understanding of the impactful work being done to uplift our communities.
Remember, these resources and more are available on Uplifme’s website at https://uplifme.com. Stay connected by signing up for our newsletter here to receive regular updates and exclusive content.
Let’s continue to uplift and empower our communities together! 
