It was in 1994 that Native Americans in the Farmington community, in conjunction with the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church, concluded that a long-term care program related to domestic-abuse healing will be established in the area. Our program was designed by asking many different social services agencies, including Navajo Social Services, what needs exist in the community. There was an overwhelming response that a transitional living program was needed, as none existed in the Four Corners region. At least 60 domestic violence cases occur weekly in the city of Farmington, and myany more are reported within the Najavo Nation.
        Clearly, there is a need for domestic violence services in the Four Corners area. While there ar several agencies providing counseling services and/or short term shelter, the New Beginnings Program at the Navajo United Methodist Center is the only program in the Four Corners area, which covers approximately 200 sq. miles, that offers transitional housing and services for domestic violence victims. Since there are numerous women in the Four Corners area who need continued assistance after being in a short-term facility, it was determined that the program would provide a transitional living arrangement whereby the women and their children could not only be housed for up to one year, but they would have access to counseling and other social services.
        This program does not duplicate existing programs, but acts as an advocate to strengthen existing programs or helps to get new programs established that focus on women's and children's issues. The few crisis shelters in the area only house women for approximately 30 days. Often 30 days is not enough time for women to make permanent changes in their lives. For example, they must obtain thei GED, enroll in job training programs, and find affordable housing, transportation and childcare. Many times they need counseling and support for themselves and their children around the trauma of violence that has dominated their lives. They need time to learn to live a new way, that of hope and affirmation of their lives. Our program assists in these efforts, and women may stay in our program up to one year to achieve their goals.