DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

BERNICE PROGRAM

Bernice USA

About Bernice USA

Black women in the U.S. are six times more likely to be victims of domestic violence compared to white women, with factors like structural racism, economic instability, and partner violence contributing to these disparities.

The impact of these losses affecting families and communities, particularly in households led by women.

Partnering with Bernice, we are dedicated to addressing these issues with resources, education, and advocacy.

Bernice is actively participating in campaigns like the "16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence" and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), aiming to prevent violence and educate communities.

Partnering with Safe Shelter Collaborative

There is a link between domestic violence and housing instability, particularly in minority communities where structural racism and poverty exacerbate the risk.
High-density, low-income areas face higher domestic violence homicide rates, pointing to the urgent need for secure and affordable housing options to protect vulnerable populations.
MWG and Bernice are collaborating with the Safe Shelter Collaborative to provide immediate, safe housing for domestic violence survivors, addressing a critical need in at-risk communities.
- Through our partnership with the Safe Shelter Collaborative, MWG offers not only emergency shelters but also long-term housing solutions, helping survivors transition to stable living environments.
Board members Catherine and Kindra play a crucial role in managing and raising awareness about these housing initiatives, offering expertise and compassionate support to ensure effective and responsive assistance for those in need.
- Individuals seeking safe housing can connect with MWG’s programs to find immediate refuge and access resources for permanent housing solutions, fostering a safer and more stable future.

Partnering with Dr. Shabnam Balali

Mental health illness does not discriminate by race, color, gender, or sexual orientation, but racial and ethnic minorities often face poor outcomes due to cultural stigma and lack of services.
Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, with women and girls being at higher risk and often receiving inadequate help.
MWG aims to provide monetary support, wellness access, counseling, childcare, and mental health services to Black and Hispanic mothers

Bernice’s Initiative (This is For Her Program - TIFHP):
- Provides mental health education and art therapy for girls and women in areas with limited access to care.
- Aims to increase public awareness, decrease stigma, and empower girls to understand their own emotions.
- Includes workshops and safe spaces for girls to discuss their mental health, recognize warning signs, and support each other.

Explore courses like the Youth Data Science Course and Foundation of Financial Planning

There is often a lack of financial education in schools, emphasizing that financial literacy is often learned privately. This gap can hinder the poor and middle class from advancing economically.
- However, individuals from poorer backgrounds face cultural, financial, and knowledge-based barriers to pursuing higher education.
The wealthy continuously invest in personal development and ongoing education, a practice that the poor and middle class often overlook or cannot afford.

MWG, in collaboration with the Principal Foundation, is addressing these financial education gaps by offering a Youth Data Science course for 8th grade and up and a Foundation for Financial Planning course for adults
In addition to financial literacy, the course includes data science education, preparing students for high-demand careers and promoting economic mobility.
- This initiative aims to create lasting change by providing people with the tools to understand and manage their finances effectively, ultimately fostering a more financially literate and empowered generation.

Partnering with LAEDC and California Forward

There is a significant link between domestic violence rates and employment challenges among minorities. Structural racism, poverty, and low educational attainment contribute to these disparities.
- States with higher percentages of low-income households show greater disparities in domestic violence homicide rates, highlighting the need for economic opportunities.
MWG and Bernice are collaborating with LAEDC and California Forward to enhance job access for minorities.
- Through these partnerships, MWG provides resources and pathways to employment, helping to improve their economic stability and reduce vulnerability to domestic violence.
Individuals interested in these job access programs can apply through MWG’s initiatives, as down below, gaining the opportunity to improve their economic situation and, consequently, their overall well-being.