Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer Champions the Cause of Domestic Violence
Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer Champions the Cause of Domestic Violence
On Feb. 12, 2008, leaders of Shalom Task Force, a leading agency dealing with domestic violence in the Jewish community, met with NY State legislators in Albany to discuss the issues facing families who are victims of domestic violence.
Hosted by Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer (D-23), the reception was attended by numerous New York State legislators including: Nettie Mayersohn (D-27), Helene Weinstein (D-41), Rhoda Jacobs (D-42), Rory Lancman (D-25), Senator Bill Perkins (D-30), Senator Toby Ann Stavitsky (D-16), Linda Rosenthal (D-67), Harvey Weisenberg (D-20), Barbara Clark (D-33), Steven Cymbrowitz (D-45), Amy Paulin (D-88), Michelle Schimel (D-16), Peter Lopez (D-127), Joseph S. Saladino (D-12), Ellen Young (D-22), Ellen Jaffee (D-95), and various leaders from the Office of Children and Family Services.
“The Shalom Task Force provides an invaluable service in helping curb domestic violence and assisting its victims. Increased funding and broadening support is paramount to protect families struggling with abusive situations,” stated Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer.
This was the first political reception held by Shalom Task Force in Albany. According to Shalom Task Force board member Aviva Hoch, “It was a remarkable experience to be greeted by so many political leaders who offered their compassionate support for victims of domestic violence. As New Yorkers, we owe a lot of thanks to our leaders like Audrey Pheffer, Nettie Mayersohn and Helene Weinstein who have embraced our cause and are spearheading our efforts to expand our services to more families who need our support.” Another Shalom Task Force board member Surel Goldfinger believes that the political leaders she met with were very supportive of Shalom Task Force's numerous programs that are combating domestic violence. According to Mrs.Goldfinger, “It was gratifying to meet with so many individuals who share the same concerns and ideals. This will no doubt lead to mutually beneficial relationships.”
The reception culminated in a special meeting with Speaker Sheldon Silver where STF leaders discussed the issues facing victims of domestic violence and the broad range of services they offer to the Jewish community. Since 1992, Shalom Task Force has aimed to raise community awareness and help women and families struggling in abusive relationships. Shalom Task Force’s hotline and preventive educational programs for students and engaged couples reach out to thousands of New Yorkers each year.
Also attending the meetings were Miriam Ellenberg - STF volunteer hotline advocate, Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch - Executive Director, Shalom Task Force, Dr. Sarah Chana Silverman -Director of Program Development and Evaluation and Meir Rizel -Director of the Men’s Educational Program.
For more information about Shalom Task Force, visit their website at www.shalomtaskforce.org or call their hotline at 1-888-883-2323.
Contact
Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch Executive Director, Shalom Task Force Cell: 646-428-4723 execdirector@shalomtaskforce.org