A Better Life: How DVP Helps Survivors Out of the NYC Shelter System

The journey of survivors from abusive situations to full liberation can be long and difficult, swarmed with bureaucratic barriers. As DVP knows firsthand, the amount of legal and advocacy work needed to navigate the housing, support, and healthcare systems for survivors (particularly undocumented ones) is enormous and demanding.

Despite this, the success stories of survivors who find their way are incredible, and their revitalized outlooks are always worth the hardships. It’s important to remind ourselves how important advocacy work can be, especially when supported by the financial and volunteer support of the community. It’s these stories that keep us inspired and invigorated in the face of looming legislative changes that hint at even more impediments to survivor freedom.

A Survivor Family Finds New Life in New Housing

For the safety of all involved, we’ve removed any identifying details about the individuals in this case.

In previous articles, we’ve talked extensively about the challenge of housing for survivors, particularly as it relates to the “shelter-to-shelter pipeline” that traps individuals in a broken system. So when DVP has the chance to leverage community support and go above and beyond for a survivor’s well-being, we’re going to take that opportunity.

In one instance, DVP had successfully helped an immigrant survivor and their child become liberated from an abuser, escaping a cycle of violence. But their shelter experience continued a feeling of hopelessness – that is, until our advocates were able to guide the survivor through the housing lottery system. Eventually, after persistent application, the survivor was able to move into a comfortable and affordable apartment of their own.

But the DVP support system didn’t stop there. Thanks to donations and cash assistance provided by partner organizations and direct donations from supporters, we were able to not just cover moving expenses but also help furnish the new apartment to feel like a fully lived-in home. 

This is the driving force of DVP and why our work to assist survivors (regardless of immigration status) takes a village. A survivor family not only got out of their abusive situation, but found an entirely new, fulfilling life in a world where hope had previously felt out of reach. This is the possibility and promise of community effort – putting every available resource into play to protect, uplift, and empower those individuals who need our help the most.

What 2025 and Beyond Looks Like for Survivor Safety

These opportunities for survivors could become much less accessible in the incoming administration. Numerous challenges have already been suggested that threaten our ability to find these same resources, particularly with immigrant clients and organizations like ours that serve them. 2025 could be the start of a whole new wave of regressive policy, including:

• Reversal of crucial asylum, TPS, and U- and T-Visa statuses
• Denial of services and protections for existing legal residents and asylees
• Political attacks on sanctuary cities
• Denaturalization of non-US-born citizens
• Mass deportation for all undocumented immigrants, regardless of history or current status

Despite all that, we maintain optimism in our work. What the previous story shows is that a path towards justice and empowerment is not just faintly possible, but very achievable. Rather than backpedal into a system that punishes people looking for a better life, we can refocus our efforts to protect these individuals and provide them with the fulfilling, community-building lives they and their families deserve.

Joining DVP in the Fight for Survivor Justice

More than ever, DVP is ready to fight for our clients – no matter what community they’re from or their immigration status. Our organization provides crucial services supported by community members like you, including:

• Legal protections for undocumented survivors of DV and IPV
• Advocacy for necessary services, housing, and support
• Guidance on immigration protocols and procedures to protect survivors from their abusers and secure safety, liberation, and better lives in the US

Click the link below to support, donate, and volunteer with DVP and help bring our mission to life. Plus, sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates on DVP’s crucial work and more ways to get involved.

Learn more about how you can support survivors and their children to live free of violence and abuse.

Ways to Support