MurthyFoundation and ASHA for Women - Domestic Violence Relief
Posted Aug 15, 2008
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For nearly 20 years, Washington-based Asian Women's Self Help Association (ASHA for Women) has provided domestic violence victims of South Asian descent with culturally-specific, multi-lingual support, ranging from referrals for psychological counseling to legal services. Founded in 1989, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization finds legal, medical, and counseling services, as well as transportation and financial assistance, for South Asian victims of domestic violence located in the Washington DC metro area.
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Besides the strain of abuse, many of ASHA's clients also face obstacles because of their dependent immigration statuses. These complex challenges are met by the all-volunteer organization, which relies upon a large network of providers that serve the family and immigration law needs of clients. The MurthyFoundation is supporting the good works of ASHA, whose name also derives from the Hindi word for hope.
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Although ASHA for years has been helping immigrant women and children from abusive homes rebuild their lives, the organization was recently empanelled by the Embassy of India to assist women from that country who have been deserted by their spouses living abroad within five years of marriage. In addition to direct aid to clients, ASHA participates with other local organizations and social service agencies to build coalitions and advocate for policies that protect women and children from domestic violence. These efforts echo the MurthyFoundation's focus on the needs of women, children, and immigrants, making us pleased to support this fine organization.
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MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers interested in more information on ASHA for Women can find it online. Please note that ASHA is only able to assist victims within the Washington DC metro area. Women located outside of the DC metro area, who need such services, can find referrals to similar organizations across the country on the ASHA WebSite.