Senator Hueso presents check to Womanhaven to help fight domestic violence

California Senator Ben Hueso presented a $200,000 check on Friday to El Centro’s Womanhaven to help fight domestic violence.

“We’re celebrating that we’re able to bring support to a very important organization, Womanhaven,” Hueso said.

Womanhaven helped nearly three hundred people last year, according to officials.

“Sometimes they find themselves in a domestic violence situation or homeless situation,” Hueso explained.

Some survivors of domestic violence shared their stories at the presentation.

“I left with one change of clothes and a baby on each hip. I didn’t have money for diapers. I didn’t have formula. Truly saved my life, lives of my children,” Dede Guillory-Chavez said. She’s now on the board of directors.

Another survivor escaped with two children as well. She became homeless because of domestic violence. With the help of Womenhaven, she now has her own apartment, is attending Imperial Valley College and hopes for a degree in psychology.

But, it’s not a happy ending for everyone.

Judith R. Klein-Pritchard, Director of Legal Services, said, “Not everybody is successful completely. And there have been some real heartaches over the years. We have unfortunately have had clients of us murdered. We’ve had some never escape the violence.”

Senator Hueso said it’s a problem that hits close to his heart.

“As someone who has experienced domestic violence growing up,” Hueso said.

Hueso explained that five five years ago he authored a law to help protect victims.

“I helped pass a bill called Kathy’s law, that sought to end violence and homicides related to domestic violence,” Hueso said.

Kathy’s Law allows for abusers to be monitored electronically.

Womanhaven is located at 510 Main Street, Suite 106, in El Centro.