SANTA BARBARA COUNTY A new eight-week pilot program aimed at providing safe space for victims of violent crimes is scheduled to begin next month.
Healing Ourselves is an innovative support group launched by local nonprofit Freedom to Choose Project and the Victim Assistance Program of the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office. The group offers a space for people to share their experiences, learn from each other and gain tools and techniques to continue their healing process stemming from cases already prosecuted and closed, according to a news release.
The group will be co-facilitated by Dr. Bonnie Paul, co-founder of the Freedom to Choose Project, and Arlene Stepputat, MA, founding board member of the organization. The program is non-denominational and free of charge.
Classes will begin from 6:30 to 8:30 Feb. 25 at the First United Methodist Church, 35 E. Anapamu St. Free childcare will be available for ages 2-12. Pre-registration is required.
To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/supportforvictims/ or call 805-323-6156. To register, email register@freedomtochooseproject.org.
