2026 Spark Prize spotlight: Asiyah Women's Center supports survivors of intimate partner violence * Brooklyn Paper

"We offer immediate crisis intervention, safe housing, and comprehensive support services that really help women and children transition from immediate danger to stability with a lot of dignity and independence going forward."

"On average, 1 out of every 3 American Muslim women experiences intimate partner violence, and since its founding in 2018, the organization has assisted over 1000 women and families, 94% of whom identify as members of the AMEMSA or BIPOC communities."

"Nearly nine times as many females were murdered by a male they knew (1,861 victims) than were killed by male strangers (209 victims), with women far more likely to be killed by their spouse, an intimate acquaintance, or a family member than a stranger."

Asiyah Women's Center is New York City's first emergency shelter specifically dedicated to serving survivors of intimate partner violence from Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, South Asian, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities. Since its founding in 2018, the organization has supported over 1,000 women and families, with 94% identifying as AMEMSA or BIPOC community members. The center provides immediate crisis intervention, safe housing, and comprehensive support services including mental health and housing assistance. Clients typically stay 20-30 days, though duration varies based on individual needs. The organization serves approximately 100 women and children annually, employing a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach to help survivors transition from danger to stability with dignity and independence.

Read at Brooklyn Paper