Domestic Violence

Low-income, immigrant and refugee families are particularly vulnerable to domestic violence due to a variety of factors. These include the many stressors created by poverty, cultural adjustment issues that challenge traditional roles in the culture of origin, and language or cultural barriers that may prevent victims from seeking help. Sometimes there is simply a lack of education or awareness, both at the individual and at the community level, as to what constitutes domestic violence. Moreover, culturally sensitive, language-appropriate services are in short supply, making it extremely difficult for these victims to receive the help they need.

The Multicultural Center provides individual counseling, advocacy and case management to immigrants who are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing, domestic violence. Services for survivors or domestic violence and children who have been impacted indirectly are provided free of charge. Other services have a fee.

Programs:

• Domestic Violence Intervention Program
• Women’s Domestic Violence Support Group
• Individual counseling, advocacy and case management

Women’s Domestic Violence Support Group in Spanish

Offers information, emotional support and service referrals to victims of domestic and sexual assault. NVFS, in partnership with Fairfax County, also provides a children’s group offering education and group activities to children who have witnessed domestic violence.