More battered women rebuild lives at The Haven
Abused, battered and abandoned. But not defeated.
Sixteen women have found better lives through self-sufficiency with the help of The Haven, a halfway home for abused and battered women, in Dagupan City.
Recovering from their traumatic experiences as victims of domestic violence, these women, ranging in age from 13 to 35, are presently actively engaged in production of bottled Bonuan bangus sardines as their means of livelihood.
In a talk with The PUNCH, some of the women openly shared their traumatic past and how The Haven, managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), has helped them pick themselves up and moved on.
Maribel, 32, a housewife from Alaminos City, sought refuge in the center 4 months ago, and said her activities in her new livelihood has provided her therapy and enabled her to be financially self-reliant and productive.
Marilou, a 29- year old mother from La Union, said her earnings provide for her three-year old son’s needs.
For her part, Juna, 16, a victim of sexual abuse, said taking charge of cleaning the fish for processing helps her forget her past.
Louie Acosta, a social worker at The Haven established by Gina de Venecia, wife of Rep. Jose de Venecia Jr., said the program for its beneficiaries covers livelihood training, therapy, and legal assistance to seek justice against their abusers.
“Staying at The Haven makes them feel loved, useful and productive. They begin to see new opportunities for a new beginning once the clients are allowed to go back to their homes or through foster care of their relatives,” Acosta said.
The main product of The Haven’s women today is labeled “Dagupan Bangus” and currently marketed just by word of mouth, but the DSWD intends to tap restaurants and other retail outlets to widen their distribution network.
Aside from bottled bangus, the institution also produces dishwashing soap, fabric conditioner, skin-whitening soap, bags, and doormats.
“So far, these products are selling well, especially the bottled bangus,” Acosta said.#
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