At Diocesan Convention in January 2013, several deputies from Church of the Atonement in Tenafly attended a Justice Board workshop by Laura Russell, Esq. that raised their awareness of human trafficking here in New Jersey. As a result, Atonement has developed a relationship with the Bergen County organization Shelter Our Sisters (SOS) to support their commitment to trafficking victims.
On September 28, 2014, Atonement awarded SOS one of its first Clopper Outreach grants to use as seed money to develop a comprehensive Abuse Community Awareness Program. The goal of the new program is to broaden understanding of the overlapping crisis of human trafficking, domestic violence and sexual assault in Bergen County.
In October 2014, SOS changed its name to Center for Hope and Safety (CHS) to reflect its commitment to serve not only women but also their children and communities.
Patrice Levinsky, the CHS staff person responsible for this new program, along with Elaine Myerson, Executive Director, received the check, spoke to the congregation, and answered questions after the service.
Atonement’s Clopper Outreach grants come from The Helen Clopper Fund, established through a bequest from a long-time parishioner. They are separate from the Outreach grants funded through Atonement’s annual budget.
Determined to stay involved, Atonement will host a two-hour Abuse Community Awareness Seminar led by Ms. Levinsky on January 15, 2015. Meanwhile, members of Atonement will take part in the Candlelight Vigil and Center for Hope and Safety Pathway Dedication at Van Saun Park Lot #4 on Tuesday, October 28 at 5:30 p.m.
Ms. Levinsky is glad to visit other Bergen County groups – large or small – that would like to increase their understanding of human trafficking, domestic violence and sexual assault. Her presentations can be the full length (two hours) or of shortened length (30 minutes to an hour). If you have any questions about hosting an Abuse Awareness Seminar for your community, contact patrice@hopeandsafetynj.org.
