Women-led NGO to provide mental health support for victims of abuse
Abuse comes in many different forms. But whatever the type may be, it all takes a toll on a person's physical and mental health. That's why now, more than ever, it is vital that we lend a helping hand to the victims who are trying to overcome the trauma their abusers have inflicted on them.
It is, and will never be, an easy process to get over an abusive experience. This is why Sagip Babae Foundation aims to offer safe spaces for these victims and make them feel heard, seen, and acknowledged. The foundation is a newly formed non-government organization that seeks to help women victims of abuse.
Founded by Francesca Fugen and Melissa Rina Profeta, women who are also survivors of abuse, the organization is building an online Facebook community for women victims of abuse who are 18 years old and above.
Source: Sagip Babae Foundation
On their Facebook community, the foundation will host webinars and bi-monthly group sessions, share various self-care strategies, and give victims a comprehensive guide on meditation and holistic healing.
It also houses its own counselors and psychologists to form better and specific assessments of the women victims seeking help. As shared by Francesca during the launch, Sagip Babae Foundation will shoulder all expenses for therapy and medication within the first month of participation, as well as half of the costs in the second and third months.
According to Francesca, the realistic three-month plan was designed this way in order for the organization to reach all women victims of abuse. As they lend a helping hand, they want to extend their efforts to everyone in the best possible way that they can.
After the three-month plan, the help they are offering does not stop there. With the community they have been able to build, these women victims can feel, somehow, at ease knowing that there are other women out there who are with them and are supporting them - women they can easily approach and talk to.
Source: Sagip Babae Foundation
In an interview with Francesca, she shared her experience talking to the women victims of abuse they've helped and said, “I did my best to make her feel na hindi sya mag-isa. Trying to make her feel that she's not alone.”
Growing up and finding out about her abusive experience later in her life, Francesca realized that the most important thing victims need is the presence of another and acknowledgment that they are not to be blamed for their abuser's actions.
Again, if you are a victim of abuse or know someone who is, Sagip Babae Foundation is here for you. There is a way to get over your abusive experience and they are here to help you.
