Jenesse Center, Inc. is the oldest domestic violence
intervention program in South Los Angeles. The Center was founded in 1980 by five African American
women who were survivors of domestic violence. Our
mission is to provide victims of domestic violence
with a comprehensive, centralized base of support to
assist them in addressing their immediate crisis and
changing the patterns of their lives.
Our program
philosophy is based on the following principles:
(a) Domestic
violence is a family issue
(b) Women and children are our primary clients
(c) Clients should receive culturally sensitive and
culturally competent services
(d) Children are equal victims of domestic violence
(e) Clients must receive more than shelter – they
must receive life skills
(f) Services must transform victims into survivors
(g) Services must be provided to populations that
are generally turned away elsewhere
(h) Public opinion and public policy must be
impacted to combat domestic violence
Jenesse has been
located in South Los Angeles for 25 years.
Traditionally this community has not viewed domestic
violence as a “major” issue that had to be
confronted with the same vigor and commitment as
civil rights, housing discrimination and police
brutality. Women have been reluctant to call the
police when they are battered. Calling the police
or discussions about domestic violence is looked
upon as another way to “bash men”. A poll published
in June 1994 by the Los Angeles Times showed that
even with his history of abuse toward his spouse,
74% of the African American population was “very or
somewhat sympathetic” toward OJ Simpson. He was
viewed as a victim.
Jenesse is able to address this misconception and
the above principles through programs & services
that meet all the critical needs of the clients.
Our business center provides drop-in services to
women who might still be living their batterer, but
want the safety of an association with Jenesse or to
those who have safe residency but need resources
other than shelter. Our Emergency Shelter houses
women who have left their batterer. They may live
here with their children for up to 30 days. Jenesse
accepts women with medical or mental health
conditions, those who are physically challenged, and
women with adolescent male children. Our
transitional facilities house women
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