Lassen Family Services, Inc. has received funding from the Sierra Health Foundation to improve the health and quality of life of domestic violence victims through the structured Interactive Journaling process, counseling and providing safety and shelter in times of crisis.
Now, in its seventh year, Sierra Health Foundations’ Responsive Grants Program continues to support projects that improve the health and well-being of people throughout their 26-county funding region. Lassen Family Services received a $15,000 grant from Sierra Health Foundation through its Responsive Grants Program. The grant is one of 19 awarded by the Sacramento-based private philanthropy, which promotes improved health and quality of life for the people of Northern California.
Sierra Health Foundation awarded a total of $255,042 to support projects that improve health and quality of life in the 2014 Responsive Grants Program first funding round. Through the Responsive Grants Program, Sierra Health Foundation asks nonprofit organizations and public agencies how they can promote and improve health in their communities.
Currently, Lassen Family Services operates a 20 bed confidential shelter offering emergency and transitional housing for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Victims and children entering the program receive safety, housing, food, clothing, access to medical, dental and mental health care, and dedicated case management services.
With funding from Sierra Health Foundation, Lassen Family Services will incorporate the Interactive Journaling process into their program. Interactive Journaling is an important tool enabling survivors to understand the behaviors that cause them to return to their abuser and targeting the specific negative filters through which victims view life – thereby, improving recovery and long-term health.
“Lassen Family Services believes that health and quality of life, especially following a traumatic event, begins with addressing the whole person during periods of crisis and does not end until the behavior changes through the months and years that follow,” explains LFS Executive Director Melissa Downing. “Accordingly, Lassen Family Services provides trauma informed care to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse by providing crisis intervention, child abuse treatment therapy, hospital accompaniment, peer counseling, prevention education, parent education, and advocacy services.”
“The support from the Sierra Health Foundation will help us help victims transform their lives as well as impact our community.”
In 2013, according to Downing, Lassen Family Services provided services to a remarkable 1 out of 49 community members.
“We realize, though, we cannot do it alone,” said Downing. “Members of the public are invited to assist in our efforts. If you know someone or are a victim yourself, please contact our agency for help. Our confidential Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 530-257-5004. Donations are accepted and greatly appreciated. Together we can make a difference.”
The Domestic Violence Program is also funded by the California Office of Emergency Services, Blue Shield of California and Lassen Plumas Sierra Community Action Agency.
