Confidential Advocacy
VEST provides trauma-informed, survivor-centered services for individuals impacted by domestic violence and polyvictimization, including sexual assault and human trafficking when connected to domestic violence. Our services are designed to promote safety, stabilization, healing, and long-term empowerment through advocacy, crisis intervention, case management, education, and coordinated community-based support.
Our goal is to help survivors regain control of their lives, navigate times of crisis, and build a future free from violence. Every member of the VEST team is a trained confidential advocate committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and empowering services that honor each survivor's unique experiences and choices.
VEST is committed to providing services without discrimination. We proudly serve all individuals regardless of race, color, national origin, disability, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. We believe every survivor deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered with the resources and skills needed to achieve safety, healing, and self-sufficiency.
Services
Confidential Advocacy Services
VEST offers confidential advocacy to individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and polyvictimization, including human trafficking when connected to domestic violence. Providing them with the support, resources, and guidance they need to navigate their path to safety and recovery. All staff has received specialized training (at least 40 hours) in counseling and assisting victims of domestic violence. California Evidence Code Section 1037.1 establishes the domestic violence counselor-victim privilege, ensuring victims can communicate confidentially with domestic violence counselors. This privilege allows victims to refuse the disclosure of private communications and prevents others from disclosing them without consent.
Restraining Order Application Assistance
Your personal safety is your most important priority. Applying for a Restraining Order is a critical legal step to take to work towards your own protection. If you need to take this action, you can contact VEST to learn how to apply for this legal protection.
Court Accompaniment
Going to court is sometimes a process you will be required to go through. We understand that this can be intimidating. But you don’t have to be alone. VEST can support and help prepare you ahead of your court date and accompany you to your hearing.
Case Management
What do you need to do? Who do you contact? Victims of abuse or violence don’t have the luxury of a manual that describes exactly what to do when dealing with a violent event or ongoing abuse. In addition, every case is unique, with different support needs and processes that need to be followed. Our VEST Case Management Team will guide you through the process and help assess the progress towards achieving your desired results.
Assistance for Victims of Crime
Our team will assist clients with the California Victim Compensation Board (Cal VCB) application. This state program is dedicated to providing reimbursement to help eligible victims pay for crime-related expenses such as counseling, medical bills, relocation costs, funeral expenses, and lost income that are not covered by insurance. Click here to apply for CalVCB funding.
Assistance for Safe at Home
VEST staff can support you through the Safe at Home application process to help protect your confidentiality and safety. Safe at Home is a confidential address program administered by the California Secretary of State's Office and is most effective when used as a part of an overall safety plan. Safe at Home offers a substitute mailing address to receive first class, certified, and registered mail for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and elder or dependent adult abuse who are in fear for their safety. Call us or click here to apply through the California Secretary of State website: https://www.sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home