Much work is being done at the local and national levels in both the secular and religious communities to improve the plight of battered women. There is clearly concern as well for children who may be abused themselves or who suffer psychological trauma as witnesses to abuse. The National Coalition on Domestic Violence and the American Association of Pediatrics are two national organizations dealing with the problem. Regionally, the Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition of Greater Boston is dedicated to providing comprehensive aid to women in the region from every walk of Jewish life. Its future goals include legal advocacy, securing safe homes, education and outreach.
Regional hospitals are also committed to dealing with the problem of domestic violence.
Most hospitals, as mandated by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, now have formal policies regarding evaluation and treatment of patients with a history of abuse. Many institutions recognize the need to go beyond the basics of care and attempt to address the multiple needs of women and their children via intensive training and orientation for staff. In conjunction with B'nai B'rith, the BI hospital has also planned educational programs for health care providers which address some of the specific needs of women of the Jewish and other ethnic communities. Chevrat Chesed, a volunteer organization within our own Young Israel community, is also dedicated to providing for the needs of women. Chevrat Chesed supports women and their families in acute need, including women who suffer violence at home.