Survivors of domestic violence in Fort Wayne’s diverse communities will soon have more support, thanks to a fresh $20,000 grant awarded to YWCA Northeast Indiana. The funding, provided by the Saint Joseph Community Health Foundation, aims to break down language barriers that often leave victims feeling isolated and unheard.
Supporting Survivors in More Languages
The bilingual domestic violence advocacy series isn’t new — but this boost allows YWCA to strengthen it. Right now, the team includes a dedicated Burmese Advocate offering crucial support to Fort Wayne’s sizable Burmese community.
Jennifer Rohlf, the YWCA’s Director of Empowerment, says language access is often the missing link in helping survivors rebuild their lives.
“We know that navigating the criminal justice system and community resources is already very intimidating for survivors of domestic violence,” Rohlf said. “This process becomes even more overwhelming when there is a language barrier.”
Grant Will Fund Interpreters and New Resources
With the new grant, YWCA plans to partner with professional interpreters for other languages staff members don’t currently speak.
One short line: no survivor should feel left behind because their first language isn’t English.
The need is real. Fort Wayne is home to one of the largest Burmese populations in the United States, alongside growing Latino and African immigrant communities.
By providing trained interpreters, the YWCA ensures victims can access help safely and with dignity.
Removing Barriers, One Conversation at a Time
Many survivors fear seeking help because they struggle to explain their situation in English.
That gap can be the difference between staying in a dangerous situation or getting out.
Rohlf says this grant means they can meet victims where they are — literally and linguistically.
• Contracting qualified interpreters
• Supporting cultural training for advocates
• Providing printed resources in multiple languages
These steps might sound simple, but they can be lifesaving.
Fort Wayne’s Growing Need for Bilingual Support
According to local estimates, more than 8,000 Burmese refugees now live in Fort Wayne, making it the largest Burmese community in the country outside of Myanmar.
Language access in legal and social services is still playing catch-up.
One advocate shared that many clients hesitate to reach out because they fear miscommunication will make things worse.
A quick glance at the numbers shows why it matters:
| Community Language | Estimated Local Speakers | YWCA Support Available? |
|---|---|---|
| Burmese | 8,000+ | Yes |
| Spanish | 6,500+ | Partial, expanding |
| Swahili & Others | 1,500+ | Expanding |
Hope for the Future
The YWCA says the grant will help build trust and encourage more survivors to step forward.
One staff member said it best: “When survivors know they’ll be understood in their own words, they’re more likely to reach out for help.”
It’s a reminder that sometimes, changing lives starts with simply listening — in whatever language that may be.
