WOBURN – State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) recently met with the management of Woburn Saheli for an informational session about the organization’s important work. The meeting focused on Saheli’s background and the vital role it plays in providing essential, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive to domestic and sexual violence victims.
“I was impressed by the breadth of services Saheli provides and their deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in the South Asian, Arabic and other communities,” said Representative Haggerty. “Having resources like Saheli’s counseling, legal advocacy, economic empowerment programs, and emergency shelters is crucial for supporting survivors on their path to safety and self-sufficiency.”
During the informative meeting, Director of Outreach & Prevention Deepali Gulati and program managers provided an overview with a presentation of their hotline operations, support groups, educational workshops, and their emergency shelter program. They also discussed how the organization helps clients navigate the court system, access healthcare, find jobs, and become financially independent. Furthermore, Saheli shared the barriers and cultural stigmas that can prevent South Asian and Arabic survivors from seeking help due to factors like language barriers, economic dependence, and the threat of being ostracized by their communities.
Founded in 1996, Saheli, which means “friend” in several South Asian languages, is a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering South Asian and Arabic survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking through support services, economic programs, and advocacy. Their comprehensive programs and services aim to meet the specific cultural and linguistic needs of these communities but are also accessible to victims from all cultural backgrounds.
Saheli encourages anyone impacted by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or trafficking to call their free, confidential helpline at 1-888-472-4354 or email: info@saheliboston.org for support services and resources.
