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What are Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault?

Domestic Violence affects one out of every four families, according to the FBI.  It is NOT the victim's fault that he or she is being abused.

 
Please call BAWC if you answer "yes" to any of these questions:


Does your partner...

  • Hit you or attack you?

  • Degrade you or call you names?

  • Attempt to control you with verbal threats or physical force?

  • Rape you?

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Sexual Assault is a crime of power, humiliation, and violence.  Feelings of shock, disbelief, frustration, helplessness, and guilt are normal after an assault.  But it is important to never blame the victim.

Bay Area Women's Center Programs

BAWC services are available to all individuals whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault. BAWC does not discriminate based on religion, race, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, age, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, or mental or physical abilities.

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A team of caring professionals assist survivors with a wide range of counseling and advocacy services.  The following services are provided, free-of-charge, to meet client needs:

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  • 24-Hour Crisis Hotline  (989-686-4551 or 1-800-834-2098) -  The crisis office is staffed with trained employees and volunteers and offers clients crisis intervention, support, referrals and information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

  • Emergency Shelter - Temporary shelter with a wide range of services to battered women, battered men, and their children

  • Individual Counseling, Support Groups and Advocacy for individuals affected by domestic violence and/or sexual assault

  • Housing Advocacy Programs - Specialized assistance for those in search of permanent, safe housing

  • Court Support and Legal Advocacy Programs  - Assistance to victims of crime, including support from a trained Victim Advocate during contacts with the legal system and information on the rights of a victim of crime

  • Children and Teen Programs - Services to youth affected by domestic and sexual violence including counseling and play therapy

  • First Response Program - Assistance to victims of domestic violence at the scene of the attack or the hospital, including counseling by trained advocates

  • Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program - A team composed of trained forensic nurses, law enforcement and advocates respond anytime day or night, to sexual assault victims seeking treatment after an assault, including pediatric victims of sexual abuse

  • Alternatives to Violence Program - The VISTA Program for women

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