Culturally Specific DV Services
At the Karen Society of Buffalo (KSB), we know that domestic violence affects people from every background. But for immigrant, refugee, and culturally marginalized communities such as the Karen community there are often extra layers of challenge such as language barriers, cultural stigma, fear rooted in immigration status, or isolation due to displacement. We believe that healing, safety, and support must come from a place of cultural understanding, respect, and trust.
If you are experiencing violence in your relationship, in your family, or in your community, if you don’t feel safe at home, we can provide you with rights education and connection to appropriate services.
All information will be kept confidential. There are no requirements to receiving help.
What “Culturally-Specific” Means for Us
Our DV services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our community. That means:
Services created by and for people from our community, grounded in our language, traditions, and lived experiences.
Survivors are supported by staff or advocates who understand and where possible share cultural background or language, helping reduce fear, misunderstanding, and isolation.
Services that respect the complexity of identity including refugee/immigrant status, language, culture, family structure, and community values so healing can be holistic, safe, and meaningful.
Why It Matters?
Because mainstream DV services often don’t meet the needs of immigrant and refugee communities who may face language barriers, fear of authority, or cultural stigma culturally specific services are not just helpful, they’re essential.
Survivors are more likely to come forward and get help when they see themselves reflected in the staff and when services respect their language and cultural identity.
Healing is more than safety, it’s about restoring dignity, trust, community, and hope in a way that honors who survivors are, where they come from, and the paths they’ve walked.
Who We Serve
Our services are available to all survivors from our community individuals, couples, families, elders, youth. We especially welcome those who:
Are immigrants
or refugees
Use Karen language or come from Karen or other culturally under-served backgrounds
Feel disconnected from mainstream support systems
Need services offered with cultural understanding, confidentiality, and care
Contact Us!
How to Get Help?
You are not alone. If you or someone you know needs culturally sensitive support, you can reach out to us. We are here to help with understanding, respect, confidentiality, and care.
Find More Resources
Contact: Briana Neale at (716) 994-3235
Email: bneale@karenbuffalo.org
