Office on Violence Against Women (OVW)
The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) provides federal leadership in developing the national capacity to reduce violence against women and administer justice for and strengthen services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
We have two community-based teams that include law enforcement, victim advocates, and legal services providers. All services are free. Victims can access all services in either location and receive services dependent on their specific needs. The victim advocate is the bridge between law enforcement, support services, legal services, and provides support and assistance throughout the process regardless of whether a criminal case is pursued. Victims receive services such as referrals to counseling, court accompaniment, relief through immigration legal assistance, legal assistance with restraining orders, relocation, and more. Bringing all of these providers together creates a seamless system of care for victims. This program empowers victims to exercise their right to protection through community-based support series, including the justice system. Law enforcement and the partner agencies are key elements in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring the safety of the victim.
Partnering agencies include Start Off Smart, Homestead Police Department and the City of Homestead, MUJER, Legal Aid, and VIDA.
OUR PROGRAMS
Educational Civic Engagement Projects
SOS implements youth-focused civic engagement projects, funded by the Ocean Reef Community Foundation, that empower young people to become active leaders in their communities. Through these initiatives, youth participate in service-learning activities, community improvement projects, and leadership development opportunities that address local needs such as food insecurity, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood well-being. By engaging youth in hands-on experiences and civic responsibility, SOS fosters a sense of ownership, builds leadership skills, and promotes long-term community involvement, contributing to healthier, more resilient communities.
The STOP Program at SOS
The STOP Program at SOS, supported through federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) funding, strengthens services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and related crimes by funding dedicated victim advocates. These advocates provide crisis intervention, safety planning, court accompaniment, and referrals to essential services, ensuring survivors receive comprehensive, trauma-informed support. By enhancing coordination between law enforcement, the courts, and community-based providers, the STOP Program improves survivor safety, increases access to justice, and promotes long-term stability and healing for individuals and families served by SOS.
The Safe Families Partnership Network (SFPN)
The Safe Families Partnership Network (SFPN), funded by the Children’s Trust, provides care coordination to children and families who are victims of violence. Other risk factors include child abuse or neglect, child chronic absenteeism, and child disruptive behaviors. The referrals are accepted from Law Enforcement, Miami-Dade County Public Schools, DCF, Court system, and self-referrals (walk-ins).
This program is funded by the Children’s Trust.
HBP – Health Benefits Program
Through the health and wellness initiative, we have dedicated Public Benefits Coordinators who work with Federal, State and Local agencies in order to identify families who need assistance in filing for public benefits. The coordinators will follow up with the applications for benefits and will work with the family until their application is completed and approved.
This program is funded by the Children’s Trust
SOS Afterschool and Summer Program
The Start Off Smart (SOS) program offers after-school and summer programming to students residing in the deep South Miami-Dade community. The primary aim of this program is to equip students and their families with the necessary skills and knowledge for higher education, leadership development, community engagement, and active involvement while also providing a safe and nurturing environment for the youth.
During both the school year and summer months, participants are offered access to a diverse range of activities and support. These activities include opportunities for peer socialization, promoting healthy lifestyles through basic and enhanced health programs, academic support to ensure success in their studies, engaging with technology and the community, participating in physical activities, developing life skills, and receiving social-emotional support.
This program is funded by the Children’s Trust.