Seasons Greetings!

As the joyous holiday season unfolds in December, encompassing celebrations like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and others, CDVS extends warm wishes to all. Embracing the diversity of holidays, we emphasize inclusivity in our approach, fostering an environment that acknowledges and respects various traditions. During this festive time, we wish everyone peace, joy, and moments of connection with loved ones, recognizing the richness that each celebration brings to our shared tapestry of community. Here's to a joyous New Year ahead, filled with hope and prosperity for all.

The Season of Giving!

It’s the season of giving! A time to share kindness and support with those who need it most. Our incredible victim advocate, Nelleke, created a beautiful window display featuring a QR code to donate to our SAFE Program. Be a blessing to others this season. If you happen to walk or drive by, snap a picture and tag us! Together, we can make this season brighter for those in need.

Grieving During the Holidays

The holiday season can be especially challenging for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The sights, sounds, and traditions of December often evoke memories that can feel bittersweet or even overwhelming. While the world around us may seem focused on celebration and togetherness, it’s important to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself permission to grieve in your own way. Whether that means embracing certain traditions, creating new ones, or choosing quiet moments of reflection, there’s no “right” way to navigate the season.

Take time to care for your emotional well-being and seek support when needed. Connecting with friends, family, or a support group can provide a safe space to share your feelings. Equally, it’s okay to set boundaries and step back from activities that feel too difficult. Remember, grief is a deep personal journey and it’s okay to honor your loved one in a way that feels meaningful to you, even if it looks different this year.

Tis The Season of Giving

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported our SAFE Program this Giving Tuesday. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of those we serve, providing critical resources to ensure safety, stability, and hope for individuals in need. With your help, we can continue addressing the urgent needs of our community and creating a brighter future for those affected by trauma and violence. Thank you for standing with us and making a difference!

Check out these

FREE benefit services!

We are on the MOVE!

We've actively engaged with the community through informative tabling events, providing valuable resources on victim services and youth crime prevention. Check out the images below to see where we've been.

We had such a wonderful time at the 22nd PDAC Bowling Party Fundraiser! It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with PDAC members and community residents while supporting a great cause. Events like this remind us of the power of coming together to make a positive impact.

We partnered with NET CUA 1 for the premiere of Daughters. It was a powerful film sparking meaningful conversations about incarceration and relationships.

We also showed up for the 37th Ward CTC Coalition of North Philly, supporting the Let’s Talk & Heal Women Empowerment event. It was a beautiful community engagement event about hair loss awareness. It was a day of sharing resources and uplifting conversations.

CTC and PATH

Empowering Communities, Transforming Lives: Be Part of the Change! 

Community Stakeholders! 

We invite you to join the 37th Ward CTC!

Communities That Care Coalition (CTC) of North Philadelphia is at the forefront of a community-based approach to preventing and addressing various social issues, especially those related to youth development and well-being. CTC is not just a program; it's a collaborative system that involves diverse stakeholders, including parents, schools, law enforcement, businesses, and social service agencies, working together to create a comprehensive strategy for positive outcomes. 

Key Elements of the Communities That Care Model: 

1. Community Mobilization: Unite with us to address local issues collaboratively. We bring together the strength of our community members, organizations, and agencies. 
2. Data-Driven Decision Making: We prioritize using data to identify and address specific risk and protective factors. Local challenges are understood through careful analysis of community data. 
3. Effective Programs and Policies: Our approach involves selecting evidence-based programs and policies that target identified risk factors, ranging from parenting programs to community policing initiatives. 
4. Implementation and Evaluation: We ensure chosen programs and policies are effectively implemented, assessing their impact through ongoing evaluation. Continuous improvement is our commitment. 
5. Sustainability: Establishing mechanisms for long-term sustainability is crucial. This involves securing funding, maintaining community engagement, and fostering a culture of prevention. 

Join Our Coalition: Be part of this transformative journey! To join our coalition and contribute to creating a healthier and safer environment, contact Ericka Gaines, Director of CTC and Prevention Programs at egaines@cdvservices.org or the CTC Chairs:

Reverend Clarence Hester, Pastor of Erie Street Baptist Church

(37^th Ward CTC)

Email: revhes@gmail.com

Clarence Nelson, Deacon of Love Zion Baptist Church

(Strawberry Mansion CTC)

Email: cgnelson51@verizon.net

Grassroots Leaders Mini Summit Success

We recently hosted a successful Grassroots Leaders Mini Summit, bringing together over 100 community leaders and organizations for a day of panel discussions, workshops, networking, and resource sharing. A special thank you to Ted Hewson of Community Connectors Collaborative and our community partner, The Salvation Army KROC Center, for their invaluable support and hosting. We also extend our gratitude to:

• Stephen St. Vincent, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, City of Philadelphia’s Managing Director’s Office
• Veda Cottom, Community Outreach Coordinator, Temple University Lenfest Center for Community Workforce Partnerships
• Ashley Feuer-Edwards, Founder, AFE Strategies
• Morgan Berman, Founder, Glitter
• Christopher Holland, Co-Founder and COO, Connexus Technology, and Executive Pastor, Salt & Light Church

This incredible event would not have been possible without the dedication of our coalition members, volunteers, CDVS staff, and support advocates.

Pennsylvania Learning Portal

A Free Resource for Prevention

The PA Prevention Learning Portal is a comprehensive resource designed to expand your knowledge, build skills, and enhance your ability to implement evidence-based prevention practices. Explore free trainings, resources, and more by clicking the button below. Please share this valuable resource with others in your network!

Our PATH program’s goal is to reduce or prevent violence in the Strawberry Mansion and Kensington communities by building resilience in families of youth ages 14-24. We would like to partner with schools and youth serving organizations within Strawberry Mansion and Kensington. For more information about PATH or if your organization or school would like to become a PATH Partner, please contact Ericka Gaines at egaines@cdvservices.org. 

Let's build a stronger, safer, and more connected community together! 

Let's Talk About It!

As the year comes to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on your personal and professional growth while setting intentions for the new year. For many, December is a season of both reflection and planning. It is an opportunity to evaluate the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved. In this month’s Women on the Rise spotlight, we encourage you to take stock of how far you’ve come, celebrate the resilience you’ve shown, and identify actionable goals that will empower you to rise even higher in the year ahead.

Whether it’s investing in self-care, pursuing a long-awaited dream, or simply appreciating your progress, let this season inspire you to end the year on a strong note. Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to a larger journey of growth and success. Here's to rising above challenges and stepping into 2025 with strength and purpose!



December is

Universal Human Rights Month

As we observe Universal Human Rights Month in December, Central Division Victim Services is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of those affected by crime and championing their fundamental rights. In this significant month, we reflect on the universal principles of justice, dignity, and compassion that guide our mission to empower survivors. Through our ongoing efforts, we strive to create a world where every individual's rights are respected, protected, and upheld, fostering a community built on empathy and support. Join us in spreading awareness and advocating for the rights of all people.

December is

National Family Caregivers Month

National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, observed throughout December, stands as a crucial period dedicated to raising awareness about the serious consequences of impaired driving. This initiative encourages communities, organizations, and individuals to come together to educate and take preventive actions. The month-long campaign serves as a reminder to prioritize responsible choices, promote sobriety, and ultimately contribute to the safety and well-being of all road users. As we engage in various awareness activities, let's unite in our commitment to prevent drunk and drugged driving, making our roads safer for everyone.

December is

Identity Theft Prevention & Awareness Month

During National Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month in December, we emphasize the critical importance of protecting personal information in an increasingly digital world. At Central Division Victim Services (CDVS), we have worked closely with those of our clients who have been affected by identity theft, a significant portion of whom are seniors. This month serves as an opportunity to highlight the specific challenges faced by seniors and reinforces the need for comprehensive prevention strategies. By raising awareness and fostering a proactive approach, we strive to empower individuals, particularly seniors, in safeguarding their identities against the ever-present threat of identity theft.

During the month of December, data breaches are extremely prevalent as cybercriminals continue to target organizations that collect personal identifiable information for their own financial gain. Identity thieves will pose as bank representatives, internet service providers and even government officials to get you to reveal identifying information. They can drain your bank and investment accounts, open new credit lines, steal your tax refund, and use your insurance information.

Here are the seven types of identity theft:

Credit Identity Theft

When a criminal uses your information to apply for a new credit line.

Child Identity Theft

A criminal steals a child’s identity to apply for credit in the child’s name.

Synthetic Identity Theft

Occurs when a criminal uses a patchwork of identity details to create a fictitious consumer using a Social Security Number to apply for loans or credit cards

Taxpayer Identity Theft

Thieves will use a Social Security Number to file a tax return to steal your tax refund or credit.

Medical Identity Theft

When a criminal uses someone else’s identity to get health care services.

Account Takeover

Criminals use personal data to access your financial accounts and then change passwords or addresses so you can no longer access the accounts.

Criminal Identity Theft

When an individual gives legal authorities someone else’s name and address during an arrest or investigation.

Police for People

Walking escorts are available to accompany individuals to locations within Temple University's patrol boundaries. Escorts are security bike officers that maintain communication with Temple Police. Escort service is available daily. Below are the instructions to request an escort. Everyone please be safe.

TUPD's 27th Annual Children’s Holiday Party brought joy to local families with 700+ gifts, thanks to partners like Toys for Tots & TUBAA's Project GIVE.

22nd District hosted their 2nd Annual Candy RV at Raymond Rosen. It was nothing but a great time within the community.

Two dozen bicycles were gifted to children living in North Philadelphia from Temple University’s Department of Public Safety, all thanks to a generous donation from a Secret Santa.

Shop with a Cop was such a great experience. Spending time with future generations and having the opportunity to give back was truly a blessing.

To help combat the cold weather, 22nd District decided to distribute coats a little earlier this year. Over 200 coats were given to students at Duckrey Elementary at 16th and Diamond Streets. They wanted to bring nothing but smiles to the faces of the students and staff.

The 22nd District Teen Town Hall Part 2 had a theme of Friendsgiving. It was truly an incredible experience. It provided a safe space while fostering empowerment and uplifting our young leaders of tomorrow.