Seacoast Spotlight Series: HAVEN NH

Piscataqua Savings Bank is the proud supporter of over 130 Seacoast area nonprofits. We’re highlighting a few of the nonprofits doing incredible, critical work in our Seacoast community with our Seacoast Spotlight Series. Next up in our spotlight is HAVEN NH.

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time for reflection, education, and action in support of individuals affected by domestic violence. One organization leading the charge in New Hampshire is HAVEN NH, formerly known as SASS (Seacoast Area Sexual Assault Support) and A Safe Place. Their mission is to provide support and resources to those in need while raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault.

A Rich History of Support

Founded with a commitment to ending domestic and sexual violence, HAVEN NH has evolved significantly over the years. In 1975, a group of determined women established the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) in Portsmouth, NH, with the mission to create support programs for women in need. Operating from a small second-floor space in a horse barn, they organized in-home informational meetings and outreach initiatives that grew through referrals and local media. The New Hampshire Charitable Trust provided seed money, allowing the WRC to expand its services.

Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1979, the WRC became a vital advocate for changing public policies and laws that limited survivors’ access to legal services at a time when sexual violence was largely unrecognized. In 1984, the WRC joined the New Hampshire Coalition Against Family Violence, now known as the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (NHCASDV).

Recognizing that sexual violence affects individuals of all genders, the organization evolved into Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS) in 1991. Initially serving Rockingham, Strafford, and York counties, SASS operated a 24-hour crisis hotline staffed by one part-time employee who trained volunteer advocates. This focus on support remains central to the agency’s mission, with hotline calls surging by 150% within the first year of the name change, reflecting increased community awareness and a willingness to seek help.

On July 1, 2015, A Safe Place and SASS officially merged to form HAVEN, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting survivors and preventing violence. This merger created the largest nonprofit organization in New Hampshire dedicated to providing support services and prevention education for those affected by domestic and sexual violence. HAVEN has become a cornerstone of the Seacoast community, offering a wide range of services for individuals and families. Their dedicated staff and volunteers provide confidential support, education, and advocacy, ensuring that survivors feel safe and empowered.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, or race. Historically, it was often seen as a private matter, with societal norms frequently overlooking or justifying abusive behavior. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that domestic violence began to be recognized as a significant social issue requiring public intervention. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1 in 4 women (24.3%) and 1 in 7 men (13.8%) aged 18 and older in the U.S. have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime, impacting roughly 10 million people annually. 

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), established in 1987 to raise awareness about domestic violence and promote prevention efforts. This observance highlights the importance of addressing the issue at both individual and community levels. Early efforts to combat domestic violence led to significant legislative changes, such as the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) enacted in 1994, which provided federal resources to address domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Despite the progress made, domestic violence remains a critical concern, emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness initiatives, educational programs, and advocacy efforts to combat stigma and ensure survivors receive necessary support.

HAVEN plays a crucial role in raising awareness about domestic violence throughout October and beyond. They organize various events, workshops, and educational programs to help the community recognize the signs of abuse and learn how to support survivors. This proactive approach not only empowers individuals, but also fosters a sense of solidarity and community resilience in the face of domestic violence.

Services Offered by HAVEN NH

HAVEN NH offers an extensive array of services designed to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, including but not limited to:

1. Crisis Intervention: Their 24/7 hotline provides immediate support to those in crisis, offering a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and seek help.
2. Emergency Shelter: HAVEN operates a confidential emergency shelter where individuals and families can find refuge from violence. This safe environment allows survivors to begin the healing process away from their abusers.
3. Advocacy and Support: The organization provides legal advocacy, helping survivors navigate the complex legal system, obtain restraining orders, and access necessary resources.
4. Counseling Services: HAVEN offers individual and group counseling sessions, providing emotional support and coping strategies for survivors as they heal from their trauma.
5. Community Education: Through outreach programs and workshops, HAVEN educates the community about domestic violence, its impact, and how to intervene safely when witnessing abuse.

Getting Involved

Supporting HAVEN NH can take many forms. Here are a few ways you can contribute to their mission:

• Attend Events: Look for local events organized by HAVEN, such as workshops, seminars, or community gatherings. Participating not only shows your support but also helps raise awareness about domestic violence.
• Volunteer: HAVEN relies on dedicated volunteers to help with various programs and services. Volunteers commit to one year and receive thorough training to help prepare them for their chosen responsibilities. 
• Make a Donation: Financial contributions are essential for non-profit organizations like HAVEN to continue providing critical services. Your donation can help support their programs and ensure that survivors receive the help they need.
• Spread the Word: Share information about HAVEN and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Increasing awareness helps break the silence surrounding domestic violence and encourages others to seek help.

As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, it’s important to remember that organizations like HAVEN NH are here to support survivors and work towards ending domestic violence in our communities. With a rich history of advocacy and support, HAVEN NH stands as a beacon of hope for individuals facing the challenges of abuse. By coming together as a community, we can help raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately create a safer environment for everyone.