Brooklyn Orthodox get outreach project

wabc

By abc7NY

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

BROOKLYN "Sex crimes exist in every community and are always very difficult for victims to discuss," Hynes said. "Because of the insular nature of Orthodox Jewish communities, many victims are reluctant to report crimes to secular authorities. This program will go a long way to address those impediments."

Victims who call the Project Kol Tzedek hotline, (718) 250-3000, will speak with a culturally sensitive social worker and a prosecutor from the Sex Crimes Bureau. Victims will be encouraged to come forward with allegations of abuse. Prosecutors and social workers will be available to meet with victims in a comfortable environment to discuss their cases.

The program will be organized by a licensed social worker, Chana Widawski, LMSW, who has experience working with Brooklyn's Orthodox Communities.

Project Kol Tzedek's strength will be based on its partnerships with community organizations, such as the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, Ohel Children's Home and Family Services and Tikvah at Ohel, and Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services.