YWCA Monterey County eliminates legal advocacy services after losing state funding.

YWCA Monterey County serves people in crisis, including survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence. In 2022, the nonprofit’s 24-hour crisis line received 2,675 calls related to domestic violence services.

The YWCA also provides a shelter and counseling. It has also provided legal advocacy services since 2002, but no longer.

On Nov. 2, the organization received a letter from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services notifying them they will not receive additional funds from the state’s Legal Assistance Program, which has provided funds to the YWCA since 2018. Legal advocacy services had been free to YWCA clients, who received assistance with restraining orders (for domestic violence or harassment), cease-and-desist letters, and in some cases, immigration cases.

Only 29 out of 75 organizations received funding from Cal OES this year. August Rivera, lead legal advocate for YWCA, says Cal OES’ decision depended heavily on having an in-house family law attorney; YWCA has instead relied on partnerships with other agencies, including Monterey College of Law and Watsonville Law Center.

The loss of funding means the end of the organization’s Legal Advocacy Department, which will primarily impact low-income migrant or undocumented women who are fleeing domestic violence and harassment.

“The financial barrier created by the loss of this program will have a profound impact on victims seeking justice,” YWCA’s CEO Christine Duncan wrote in a letter to donors.

According to the YWCA, 75 percent of calls its Legal Advocacy Department received last year included a request for a restraining order. In 2022, 575 survivors received aid with restraining orders, cease-and-desist letters, child support and more.

The nonprofit stopped providing restraining order services on Dec. 8, and on Jan. 1 will suspend all other legal services.