DVSAS provides services and support to the vulnerable

When people help each other and support those who are in need or vulnerable, a community can become unbreakable. A long-time sponsor and advocate, Bank of the Pacific partners with DVSAS in Whatcom County to help achieve the organization’s mission.

Marjie George, development director at DVSAS, highlights their role in helping some of the most vulnerable groups in the community. “The mission of DVSAS is to support individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault and sexual exploitation and lead the community toward ending this abuse of power.”

DVSAS stands for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, originally founded as the Whatcom Crisis Center in 1970. “By the late 1970s (through) the early 1980s, several other groups formed that focused more narrowly on helping women who suffered from intimate partner relationships. violence or assault,” says George. “Ultimately, these groups came together to form Whatcom County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services.”

Last year alone, DVSAS provided their services to 1,217 clients, including adults and children, while completing 8,413 hours of supportive advocacy, George said.

DVSAS services

There are many comprehensive services at DVSAS, covering everything from safe housing to court support and more.

“For more than 40 years, DVSAS has been state-accredited and has provided vital support services to those affected by these forms of violence,” George said. “Our services have continually expanded to meet the needs of our community.”

Key services include:

• Emergency safe housing: DVSAS offers safe housing to people who are at risk of being left without a home as a result of intimate partner violence.
• 24-hour helpline: a 24-hour helpline operates 24 hours a day to provide immediate assistance to people in crisis.
• Medical advocacy: DVSAS supports survivors during medical examinations and provides guidance in accessing healthcare services.
• Court support: DVSAS attorneys help survivors navigate the legal system, including attending court hearings.
• Case-specific system navigation: DVSAS provides customized support to help survivors communicate with various systems, such as law enforcement and social services.
• Support groups: DVSAS facilitates groups where survivors can connect, share their experiences and receive emotional support.
• Prevention Services: DVSAS is committed to preventing violence through educational programs and community outreach.

DVSAS is also committed to diversity and inclusion. “We provide assistance to individuals regardless of their income, gender, religion or ethnicity,” says George. “DVSAS has attorneys who speak Spanish or Russian (the two main non-English languages ​​spoken in Whatcom County). Our facilities are equipped to accommodate survivors with children or pets who have left abusive relationships.”

Bank of the Pacific Ocean

As a committed supporter of DVSAS, Bank of the Pacific recognizes the need for such a vital organization in Whatcom.

“The Bank’s mission is to be the best bank for our employees, customers, investors and communities,” said Tom Mathewson, Vice President and Branch Manager. “One of our values ​​is to demonstrate integrity, honesty and respect for others. We care deeply about our communities and have been supporting DVSAS and their mission to support those suffering from domestic violence and sexual assault in Whatcom County for years.

With Bank of the Pacific being an annual sponsor of the Tournament of Hope Golf Classic and the Hands for Hope Auction and Gala, Mathewson emphasizes the importance of patronizing the organization. “This is something that affects so many in our community, and it is very powerful to see the difference DVSAS has made in so many lives,” Mathewson said. “It is so meaningful to be part of the organization as a board member and talk about what we do.”

Mathewson hopes to raise the profile of the organization even more. “It’s amazing to me when I talk to friends, colleagues and acquaintances – how many people have heard of DVSAS or know someone who has used their services,” he says.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and DVSAS plans to make this fact visible by partnering with local businesses. “We are working with The Pickford Film Center to co-present two films for October and we are also hosting our annual Victory Over Violence celebration on October 23rd.^” says George. “Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay informed.”

Help with DVSAS support

One of the best ways to keep DVSAS a strong pillar in the community is to participate in public sponsorship and advocacy. “Of course, monetary donations help us provide services and support to survivors, but we also always need supplies for the residents of our shelters,” says George. “So often people come to us for emergency shelter with nothing but their clothes on and no way to retrieve or replace the items they left behind. Items like underwear, sports bras, leggings and sweats are always useful. Even unlocked phones or gift cards for groceries or gas can make the difference between staying with an abusive partner or getting to safety.”

Please join Bank of the Pacific and please consider helping this great local organization provide critical assistance to those who need their services.

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