Finding Hope After Trauma: Linda and Josie’s Journey Through Yorktown’s WACAV Program

Women and Communities Against Violence (WACAV) is one of Yorktown Family Services’ Violence Against Women Services. WACAV, a community outreach program, provides emotional support, advocacy, resources, and appointment accompaniment to women in the community who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. Each WACAV worker speaks at least one language or dialect other than English to provide language-specific service. Many WACAV clients are connected to shelters, such as Yorktown’s VAW shelter, to transition from a life of abuse.

Belkis Fernandes: Dedicated to Supporting Women for Over 25 Years

Belkis Fernandes is a Community Women’s Advocate Worker with Yorktown’s WACAV program. Belkis has been with Yorktown for more than 25 years, serving immigrant women and women abused by their partners. “These women live under constant threats and in environments of physical, social, and verbal violence,” says Belkis. “They are forced to depend financially on their abusers. The situation is made even more complicated because the majority do not speak English and they are cut off from any network of support.”

Linda and Josie’s Story: Finding Freedom from Abuse

Belkis recounts a high-risk case of violence and abuse. Linda* and her daughter, Josie*, were brought to Canada by Linda’s husband, Josie’s stepfather. Once in Canada, their lives changed for the worse. Josie and Linda were kept in a small, windowless basement room and were in constant fear for their lives. Linda was threatened with extreme torture and the loss of her life. Her husband also threatened that should Linda consider alerting the police, he would remove Josie from the home, and she would never see her daughter again.

Linda was able to communicate only through a text messaging app using a non-Canadian cell phone number. She had contact with only one person, her sister overseas. Fearing what would happen if her husband found out, Linda was terrified to send a message about the dire circumstances that she and Josie were in. However, even more terrified of what would happen to her and Josie if she didn’t try, Linda found the courage to send that message.

A Network of Support Leading to Safety

The text message set in motion a network of supporters that led to a former VAW client of Belkis. Linda and Josie were removed from their situation by the police. Through WACAV, Belkis was able to place the mother and daughter in Yorktown’s shelter, where they received the help and support they desperately needed.

A New Beginning at Yorktown’s Shelter

Upon their arrival at the shelter, Linda and Josie felt an immediate sense of hope and relief. The shelter’s welcoming and diverse environment put them at ease as there were staff members who spoke their language. Josie expressed, “This is the best place that I have ever lived!” and she is very happy to have a window in her room.

The Need for Support

Linda and Josie’s story highlights the critical importance of accessible services for survivors of gender-based violence. Many women, especially immigrants, face compounded challenges, including language barriers, financial dependence, and isolation. Programs like WACAV provide the support and resources they need to break free and rebuild their lives.

Sadly, Linda and Josie’s experience is not unique. According to Statistics Canada, one in three Canadian women has experienced intimate partner violence. Immigrant women often face additional obstacles, making culturally sensitive programs like WACAV essential in addressing their unique needs.

How You Can Help

Yorktown Family Services relies on the support of donors and community partners to continue offering life-saving programs like WACAV and shelter services. Your contribution can provide:

• Emergency shelter and safety for women and children escaping violence
• Culturally sensitive counselling and advocacy
• Resources to help women rebuild their lives

Your support makes a real difference. Every dollar helps ensure that women like Linda and children like Josie have access to safety, hope, and a path toward healing.

Join Us in Taking Action

The journey from fear to freedom is never easy, but with the right support, it is possible. Linda and Josie’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of survivors and the critical role we all play in helping them rebuild their lives.

Donate today to Yorktown Family Services and stand with survivors of gender-based violence. Together, we can provide a safe haven for women and children and work toward a future free of violence.