How Community Giving Helped a
Local Domestic Violence Survivor
When Sherry met her boyfriend online, their relationship developed quickly. What began as a normal relationship soon became frightening and dangerous.
As Sherry recognized her partner’s controlling behavior and attempts to isolate her from friends, she began to pull away. In response, his verbal and physical abuse escalated. He threatened serious harm and even death. Her partner’s access to numerous firearms and ties to drug gangs left Sherry terrified for her safety.
Sherry knew she needed help, but navigating the legal system on her own felt overwhelming. After learning about the Domestic Violence Services Network’s (DVSN) Network for Justice Program (NJP), she reached out for support.
Through NJP, Sherry was connected with a paralegal who guided her through the restraining order process. With emotional support, information about the court process, and extensive preparation, Sherry gained the knowledge and confidence she needed to advocate for her own safety.
Sherry was deeply grateful for the support she received. When it came time to be in court, she felt informed, prepared, and confident. With the help of the Network for Justice Program, she ultimately prevailed in her case.
Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. provides direct support and resources to victims of domestic violence in partnership with 12 police departments, Hanscom AFB, the Concord District Court, Emerson Hospital, Eliot Center, a wide variety of community agencies, and volunteer advocates.
MetroWest Legal Services provides free legal assistance to people with lower incomes, individuals with disabilities, and older adults. Through legal advocacy, they help clients protect their rights, access essential resources, and overcome barriers to justice.
Making a Difference Through Community Support
Through a recent CCF Cornerstone Grant, the Concord Carlisle Foundation helped DVSN launch Network for Justice, a critical program in partnership with MetroWest Legal Services. The program provides domestic violence survivors with guidance from a trusted paralegal as they navigate restraining orders, divorce, child custody, and support hearings. Through this work, DVSN has helped improve safety and wellbeing for at least 110 families in Concord and Carlisle.
According to DVSN Executive Director Jacquelin Apsler, “for many women, some of whom have children with special needs, and whose stability and wellbeing hang in the balance of these prolonged custody battles, this program is nothing short of lifesaving.”
For survivors of domestic violence, navigating the legal system can be especially difficult when an abuser controls household finances or uses legal proceedings to continue their intimidation and abuse. These challenges often remain hidden within a community like Concord and Carlisle, leaving survivors and their children without the support they need. Access to free legal guidance and emotional support through NJP helps survivors understand their options, prepare for court, and take steps to protect themselves and their children.
Because of the generous support of our community, CCF is able to invest in programs like Network for Justice, helping ensure that survivors in Concord and Carlisle can access these critical services when they need them most. By supporting DVSN’s work, we help strengthen the network of resources available to neighbors facing frightening and uncertain circumstances, giving families greater opportunity to move toward safety and stability.
