WomanHaven Opens New Offices in El Centro

-Editorial

WomanHaven of Imperial Valley celebrated the opening of its new offices at 1225 W. Main St. in El Centro with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, consolidating its operations and expanding services for individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

The new facility brings the organization’s wellness, housing and legal assistance programs into one location, allowing clients to access multiple services while continuing WomanHaven’s mission of supporting vulnerable residents throughout Imperial County.

WomanHaven Executive Director Gina Vargas said the opening represents a new chapter for the organization, which has served the community since 1978.

“We are here today, opening doors of hope in our new building here at 1225 Main Street,” Vargas said. “Same mission, but we have expanded our services to be able to reach those in our community to give them a place where they feel they can walk in with dignity and hope.”

Vargas said the facility provides a welcoming environment for individuals seeking assistance, emphasizing that WomanHaven serves both women and men experiencing domestic violence.

“We want individuals to know that we serve men and women,” Vargas said. “We’ve had an increase of men coming through the doors, and we think that’s wonderful.”

She said the organization seeks to help victims recover from abuse while addressing the effects of domestic violence on children, relatives and other family members.

Imperial County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Peggy Price, who previously worked as a county social worker, said she has witnessed WomanHaven’s development since first working with its staff in 1999.

“As a social worker back in 1999, I was introduced to staff from WomanHaven and watched them grow over the years,” Price said. “It’s a very exciting time right now to see how they have grown and developed.”

Price highlighted the organization’s collaboration with county social services, law enforcement agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide housing assistance, legal resources and support for individuals seeking restraining orders.

“They’ve been very good at connecting them with the different services, so that victims don’t have to go from place to place,” Price said.

El Centro Police Chief Kelly Brown emphasized the importance of WomanHaven’s partnership with law enforcement, particularly in connecting domestic violence victims with resources following police interventions.

“WomanHaven brings an incredible resource to the victims,” Brown said. “We work collaboratively with WomanHaven to ensure that our victims are referred to their services.”

Brown said domestic violence affects both men and women and remains a significant concern for law enforcement agencies.

He explained that officers receive domestic violence training through the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training and additional instruction during police academy training. WomanHaven also provides training to law enforcement personnel.

When responding to domestic violence incidents, officers evaluate evidence, interview witnesses and determine whether arrests or further investigations are warranted. Cases involving potential criminal charges are forwarded to the Imperial County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Imperial County District Attorney George Marquez said WomanHaven provides essential assistance to victims beyond the criminal justice process, particularly those dealing with emotional trauma following domestic violence incidents.

“Domestic violence victims need very intensive support because they go through very traumatic experiences, and they need someone there to support them and explain what types of assistance are available,” Marquez said in remarks translated from Spanish. “That is what WomanHaven does.”

Marquez said his office’s Victim-Witness Assistance Program works with WomanHaven to connect victims with community resources and support services.

He added that access to assistance can help victims navigate the legal process and participate in criminal proceedings.

The collaboration among WomanHaven, county agencies, law enforcement and prosecutors reflects the organization’s role in providing coordinated assistance to individuals affected by domestic violence.

Vargas expressed appreciation to the community and partner organizations that supported the development of the new facility.

“We have offered services since 1978, but today we are opening up a new door with a new commitment,” Vargas said. “No one should have to walk alone, and that we are here to help them,” Vargas said.