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VISION & MISSION

VISION

Founded by a survivor for survivors, our goal is to provide a space that empowers and encourages survivors to confidently walk into their second chance at a life without violence.  

Mission

We are here to provide on-on-one support in a non-judgemental space that empowers and encourages survivors to find their independence and self-respect. 

My Second Chance is a non-profit based in Clifton, NJ dedicated to helping survivors of domestic violence come into thier own.through a variety of one-on-one support programs, personalized plans-of-action, referrals to local resources, financial aid and guidance and more.  By providing each survivor with the individualized support they need we create an environment that unlocks a state of independence and reassurance through what can otherwise be a lonely and difficult process.

We are committed to helping survivors take the next step in their journey and confidently embark on their second chance!

OUR FOUNDER

Fatima-Salem

Fatima Salem, founder of M2C, is a survivor of domestic violence and has been working to create a network of survivors who can use their collective voices to advocate for social justice.

Since it’s foundation, My Second Chance has helped many women find safety and peace by assisting them with information on public assistance resources, finding employment, housing, continued education, childcare, and funding for necessities and expenses. More importantly, Fatima offered each survivor a personalized plan of action that always began with simply listening and offering a shoulder to lean on when thoughts and emotions become overwhelming.

Fatima’s advocacy journey began with herself. After enduring years of abuse and a final violent separation from her former spouse, she encountered resistance when she spoke up about the abuse. Being ostracized by her family and community, she was forced to escape with her four young children and rely on the authorities and nearby shelters for support. 

She encountered cold and lonely places/people who lacked the ability to provide nurturing guidance. She pledged to return to these places and offer women like herself, a softer landing—somewhere where they can be heard, understood, soothed and empowered to receive their second chance at a life worth living outside of violence.

Programs & Initiatives:

At M2C, we are committed to helping survivors take the next step in their journey and confidently embark on their second chance! We believe that each story is unique and so are the steps to navigate out of each DV situation. Our programs are available and geared toward those individualized needs.  We are here to help guide, connect and empower survivors to become their own heroes. 

We offer aid in many forms, including: 

  • One-on-One sessions

  • Moral/mental support 

  • Access to continuing education or trade programs 

  • Job placement assistance

  • Transitional housing placement

  • Apartment/Home Search 

  • Guidance and support through legal processes

  • Support Groups 

  • Child Care Assistance

  • Financial Literacy Programs

  • Online Resources 

  • Healing Circles

  • and more!

My Second Chance (M2C) also works to provide funding for crisis interventions, rehabilitation programs, legal assistance, rental assistance, housing assistance, childcare and other services for survivors who do not have the financial means to obtain these necessities on their own.

Your donations go directly toward funding these programs and helping survivors and their children through their most challenging times. 

Additionally, we provide access to certified therapists who specialize in domestic violence issues, and a community of other survivors who can provide valuable insight, perspective and encouragement. 

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to provide support and to empower survivors of domestic violence.

2022 Survivor Fest

Through your help and your support, we were able to build community, partnerships with local vendors, raise awareness and reach victims that needed our help! Thank you for all of your support!