Story by: Kim Trupiano

CONCORD, CA – The Contra Costa Family Justice Center was able make thousands of children happy this summer, distributing more than 5,000 tote bags with goodies during the Summer Camp at Home program.

As part of a child abuse prevention program, the Justice Center partnered with 45 agencies throughout Contra Costa County. Each bag included child abuse prevention messaging, educational materials, and information about at-home summer activities at the Family Justice Center, in their neighborhoods and around the county.

“We are so grateful for the support of our community,” said executive director Susun Kim. “This program put a wonderful smile on thousands of children.”

In addition, the Justice Center provided hundreds of students throughout the county with much-needed back to school supplies. Cynthia Altamirano, the center’s community fellow, coordinated the effort with Cornerstone Fellowship Church in Walnut Creek.

Children participating in the Success Academy Program also received 15 Chromebooks and headsets. The academy provides trauma-informed academic support to students in grades 1-12. It was made possible by a network of supporters that includes Cornerstone Fellowship, the Rotary Clubs of Clayton Valley and Concord Sunshine and individual donors.

Kim said the back to school program has grown exponentially in five years, from supporting 50 children the first year to now more than 400 children in centers in Antioch, Concord and Richmond.

“We couldn’t have done it without all of this collaboration,” she noted.

Community support

Contra Costa Family Justice Center’s mission is to bring together the community to support the healing of family violence survivors and to integrate capable partners with a comprehensive service approach to renew individuals and the community from the trauma of family violence. They envision a vibrant community free from coercion or fear.

The centers are community hubs for education and comprehensive, integrated services in the pursuit of justice, healing and hope.

The leaders believe that demonstrating respect and compassion brings out the best in everyone we encounter; that a safe, dynamic, inclusive and innovative environment promotes hope and healing; that integrity is paramount in all of its efforts; that justice and accountability are vital to a strong community; and that collaboration is essential to delivering excellence to people.

Donations help vulnerable women, children and seniors in our community. You can donate to the Family Justice Center here.

To learn more about programs to support children, victims of domestic violence or elder abuse, visit cocofamilyjustice.org.

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