New Horizons Domestic Violence Services launches website

Article originally published in The Middletown Press

MIDDLETOWN >> New Horizons Domestic Violence Services, which has provided shelter and assistance to victims of domestic violence in Middlesex County, has launched a new website designed to reach victims of domestic abuse.

It was made possible through a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Middlesex County and supported by the Sari A. Rosenbaum Fund for Women & Girls, MiddleOak Fund and the Elizabeth Swaim Middletown Fund.

The website – www.newhorizonsdv.com – provides victims with clear information about types of abuse and warning signs. It also offers resources for emergency services, group support, child and adult services, and assistance with navigating the court system.

A unique feature to the site is its “quick exit button” on each page which allows users to move to another site with just one click if their abuser enters the room while they are browsing the website.

The website will also serve as a resource for the latest research, trends and news about domestic violence. And for those who are interested in volunteering their time, or donating funds, there is a section of the site that offers information on how to do that.

“It is with great pride and enthusiasm that New Horizons is now able to provide information, and safety planning, specific to victims of domestic violence living in Middlesex County through our website,” stated Michele Waldner, Program Director for New Horizons.

“It is our goal to educate and provide security to those who are in need, and with this website we hope to reach out to many more victims and provide much needed services.”

For over 30 years, Community Health Center has operated New Horizons Domestic Violence Services, a 24/7 emergency program for victims of intimate partner violence fleeing abuse. On an annual basis New Horizons provides services and shelter to over 1,300 women, children and male victims.

The shelter itself is one element of a comprehensive approach to intimate partner violence that also includes community education, support groups, individual counseling, court advocacy and consultation to CHC’s clinical provider teams.

New Horizons’ staff members are part of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence where they advocate for ongoing advancement of legislation and policy that protect the health and interests of victims. A 24/7 confidential hotline (888-774-2900, 860-347-3044) is also available through the program.

The Community Foundation of Middlesex County, which provided the grant funding for this project, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for the people of the county, now and in the future, by developing endowments, making grants that have impact and assisting donors in meeting their philanthropic objectives.