Lives free from violence and abuse. Serving over 1,900 survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking each year, including more than 500 children, youth survivors and children witnessing violence in the home and over 6,000 middle and high school students through community outreach and education.
We provide support and educational groups at high school and middle schools across Santa Cruz County for survivors and allies of youth experiencing domestic violence, family violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. Monarch offers these at limited school sites based on funding and staffing restrictions, and all schools countywide request a safe, supportive environment during school hours for students to receive peer counseling and resources.
Our support groups serve as an empowerment and leadership opportunity for youth to learn about safe relationships, healthy boundaries, informed consent, and more. Our team of three is at capacity. Our hope is to raise funds this giving season to train volunteers and interns to provide these services and to hire a staff person to offer these services.
I tried to leave my abuse before but did not have the financial or emotional support to feel like I could. Monarch's wrap-around support services allowed me to leave, find housing, and go back to school. My daughter and I are safe now and are healing.
Sarah, age 26, Santa Cruz
