I have served as Victim Assistance Coordinator for the WSPD for over (6) years. While interacting with clients at Bridges to Hope Family Justice Center, I am committed to serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault respect with respect, compassion, and empathy. I understand the importance of transparency while never offering false hope. I will continue to provide clients with the tools and resources required to move forward.

Bridges to Hope Family Justice Center represents the county’s commitment to individuals and families affected by interpersonal violence. The County provides administration, navigation, and coordination with partner agencies who provide services to victims in a safe, one-stop location. We’re proud to have collaborated with local partner agencies to bring the national Family Justice Center model to Forsyth County.

As an agency, The Parenting PATH places tremendous value on the health, safety and well-being of the children and families in Forsyth County. We are proud to partner with Bridges to Hope in providing a continuum of community services to protect children and provide support systems for families. The Parenting PATH recognizes the need for coordinated services in our effort to promote safety for the members of our community, and Bridges to Hope provides an opportunity for multiple community partners to come together under one roof for the benefit of families and children.

Bridges to Hope is a vital part of our work with survivors of domestic violence because it allows us, as a legal services provider, to begin our work in a safe location for clients. Clients are able to experience a direct referral from the center when working with multiple partners, and allows us to begin the relationship in a much warmer and more comfortable way than a cold call.

The City of Winston-Salem Human Relations/Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Department works with victims of domestic violence through its enforcement authority of the local fair housing ordinance. As a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) partner agency, the Human Relations/DEI Department investigates allegations of fair housing law violations that include those based on gender, race, and national origin. continued

As per HUD’s interpretative guidance, most victims of domestic violence tend to be female, racial minority, and/or immigrants. As a result, when someone is a victim of domestic violence, fair housing law protections are automatically triggered. The Human Relations/DEI staff investigates, conciliates, and trains landlords, tenants, and the general public in this area of fair housing law. The family justice model complements this work because sexual assault victims/victims of domestic violence are assisted in a comprehensive and thorough manner that encompasses multiple aspects of needed support.