This page constitutes a directory of Latino focused initiatives in Charlottesville, Albemarle County and surrounding areas. By Latino focused, we are referring to benefits and services that are designed for the Latino community or that are offered to all residents and include bilingual (Spanish-English) staff that assists Latinos.

New references are welcomed. Please follow the format below, providing the name and telephone number of the initiative, and if possible, the name of the bilingual contact person and his/her telephone number and email. Please also indicate if the initiative has an English or Spanish language web page and its URL. Send additions, updates and corrections to cj.cville@gmail.com

Contents

Alcoholics Anonymous

Annual December Posada

Blue Ridge Commons

Churches with Spanish Language Services

Domestic Violence

Employment

ESL Services For Adults

Financial Assistance

Funding Sources for Initiatives that Support Latinos

Health Promoters

Infant & Toddler Services and Moms’ Groups

Information & Referral (General)

Latina Girls

Legal Assistance

Media

Medical Assistance for Children

Mental Health Service Providers

Migrant Services

Police

Preschool Services

Public School Spanish Lines

Sexual Assault

Soccer

Social Services

Strengthening Families

UVA Volunteers & Other Initiatives

Women's Health

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Hay Una Solución
A Spanish-language Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at the Church of the Incarnation, located behind Toys R Us off Hillsdale Drive, from Monday – Friday, at 7:30 p.m. The group, “Hay Una Solución” (There is a Solution) is open to all Spanish-speaking individuals struggling with addiction to alcohol. Walk-ins are welcomed and there is no fee. For information in Spanish call (434) 973-4381.

ANNUAL DECEMBER POSADA

For two years, Charlottesville’s Fire Department has held wonderfully authentic Posadas in December, as a way to enhance its relationship with Latinos living in the city, gain their trust, and increase their knowledge about fire safety and other Fire Department issues. Felipe Mendoza, from State Farm, has helped coordinate the Posadas in his role as a member of Fire Corps, a volunteer body assisting the Department with outreach. He and Mary Loose DeViney, Fire Corps director, welcome Latinos and service providers working with them – including elementary teachers, churches, social workers and others - to join in making this year’s Posada better than ever. The Posada is a great way to interact and learn about a different culture and provides Latinos an opportunity to practice and enjoy their customs and to learn about fire safety. For more information contact Mary Loose (MLoose@aol.com or 970-3536) or Felipe (felipemendoza@yahoo.com or 301/537-8312).

BLUE RIDGE COMMONS

The Blue Ridge Commons apartments on Prospect is served by Abundant Life Ministries which has a bilingual caseworker Claire Moore, serving Latino children with ESOL and tutoring programs held at the apartment complex. Claire can be reached at 434/242-3819 or at Claire@charlottevilleabundantlife.org Abundant Life Ministries web site is located at: http://www.charlottesvilleabundantlife.org

CHURCHES WITH SPANISH LANGUAGE SERVICES

Local churches with Spanish language services include the following:

Iglesia Rios de Agua Viva, formerly Palabra de Fe (Word of Faith’s Spanish congregation), has Sunday services at 1:00 pm in the chapel at Cherry Avenue Christian Church, 1720 Cherry (off of Harris & 5th St Extd). Bible studies are Tuesday nights at 7 pm. To obtain information about teen and other church activities, please contact Pastor Rich Hubbard at richhubbard@aol.com or 434/825-7917; or Pastor Judy Hubbard at jrjla@yahoo.com or 434/409-2365.

Iglesia Fuente de Vida, a Spanish language Christian church devoted to community service that began in fall 2008, is led by Daniel Bannister. It presently has three in-home Bible studies: one on Wednesday evenings at 7 pm in Belmont (Montrose Ave); a women's luncheon on Thursdays at noon (for women only, Bible study is held and then followed by a time to share recipes and cook together); and an evening Bible study held on Fridays at 7 pm  at 763 Prospect Ave (the pastor's home). The church also has a Latino congregation that meets at the Rainbow House trailer in Southwood. Contact Pastor Daniel at mdbannister@liberty.edu or 434/426-4122. http://www.iglesiafuentedevida.net

Casa Del Padre, Sunday services at 11:30 am and Friday services at 7 pm are some of the services offered at the 155 Carlton Rd Church (by the railroad tracks). Pastors: Fernando & Hazael Garay, Phone (434) 989-2508 or hazaelgaray@gmail.com. For more information also, visit http://www.iglesiacasadelpadre.com

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Días). Services every Sunday at 12:30 pm at 1275 Timberwood Blvd (Cville). Bilingual contact: Elder (434) 825-9712 and Catalina Garcia catalinaviba@hotmail.com; the office phone is (434) 973-6607 (Office). All meetings are translated simultaneously into Spanish and the church has a Gospel Doctrine Class taught in Spanish. For more information visit www.lds.org (click on Español).

Church of the Incarnation, 1465 Incarnation Drive (located behind Toys R Us).  Mass in Spanish: 12:30pm Sundays.  Father Edwin Montanez is the Colombian parochial vicar at the church whose Hispanic community is close to 25% of the parish.  Spanish bible study, praise and worship, rosary and prayer groups are scheduled regularly.  Christian formation and sacramental preparation is available in Spanish and English. For more information, contact Father Edwin Montanez (eam@incarnationparish.org), Fannie Smedle (434-591-0950), or Deacon Bernie Taylor at the parish office (434-973-4381).

Jehovah's Witnesses - Kingdom Hall, 665 Old Lynchburg Rd (Immediately before Southwood’s entrance), has had a growing Spanish speaking congregation since 2004; it meets three times a week. Please call for more information, (434) 295-8805.

Iglesia Pentecostal Fuente de Salvación (Pentecostal), in the West Park Plaza at 355 W Rio Rd. Services on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, contact Pastor Carlos at (434) 409-8570.

Tabernaculo de David (Pentecostal), in the West Park Plaza at 355 W Rio Rd. For information about services, contact Pastora Cathy Antigua at (434) 987-4203.

Iglesia Cannan, 3045 Ivy Rd. , Charlottesville, VA 22903 , Pastor: Josue Hernandez, Phone: 434-295-5050, Service: Wed - 7 pm and Friday 7 pm and Sunday 6 p.m. Email: iglesiacanaan@comcast.net; www.ministerioscanaan.org

Iglesia De Dios Luz Y Vida, the Spanish language counterpart of Covenant Church at 1025 E Rio Rd, is coordinated by Pastor Ramon Monja Res. Services are at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Saturday nights. For more information contact Pastor’s assistant Saul Urrutea at (434) 825-7704. http://www.covenantchurch.net

IMPACT (Interfaith Movement Promoting Action by Congregations Together) began to contact area churches with Spanish language congregations in 2008 to explore what interest they had in joining IMPACT’s social justice programs. In summer 2009, Veronica Varagas Pina was hired to work as IMPACT’s Hispanic congregation advocate. Contact: Brian Plum at (540) 907-2299 or impact@thedartcenter.org or Veronica at vargaspina@hotmail.com

Abundant Life Ministries operates ESL, mentoring and other projects serving the Latino community in Blue Ridge Commons, and Claire Moore is its bilingual worker who can be reached at (434) 970-2077 or Claire@charlottesvilleabundantlife.org ; http://www.charlottesvilleabundantlife.org Click here to view a January 2010 power point presentation on Abundant Life Ministries.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Shelter for Help in Emergencies (SHE)
Telephone/24 hours: (434) 293-8509
Contact: Dilcia Colindres, (434) 963-4676, dilciacolindres@msn.com
Web page (in Spanish):
http://www.shelterforhelpinemergency.org/Los_Recursos_Espanoles.html

EMPLOYMENT

Employment Training

Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC), through its Workforce Services program, has offered non-credit carpentry, landscaping and carpentry classes taught solely in Spanish. To learn about new Spanish language classes, contact Pat O'Rourke, Program Manager of Workforce Services, 434/961-5420 or porourke@pvcc.edu

Open Doors , an Albemarle County Adult Education program, has offered non-credit computer and personal enrichment classes in Spanish. For more information, visit its website http://www.opendoors1.org/albemarle/or call 434/975-9450 or 975-9451.

ESL SERVICES FOR ADULTS

English classes for Adults are offered by Charlottesville and Albemarle Public Schools, by UVA, PVCC, and by Literacy Volunteers.

For current course offerings by Albemarle County Adult Education, visit:
www.k12albemarle.org/adult

For current course offerings by Charlottesville City Schools, visit:
http://www.ccs.k12.va.us/programs/esl/index.html

English Classes at Southwood
Albemarle County Schools offers low cost English classes for adult residents of Southwood during the school year. A free class for mothers is offered on Monday mornings from 10:30-12:30. Beginner and intermediate classes for all residents of Southwood are offered during the school year on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30-8:30 ($25 for the semester). For more information, contact Paula Mehring at (434) 295-7936.

Downtown English: Free English classes for restaurant and hotel workers. Learn Basic English for work and life. Go to class once a week. Learn computer skills. Study anytime using videos and workbooks. Call 245-2817 today for details. Adult Learning Center, Charlottesville City Schools * 935A 2nd Street, SE (IX Building) Charlottesville, VA 22902 * www.charlottesville-esl.org

Dialogue Café
Sponsored by Charlottesville City Schools, the Dialogue Cafe provides a free, friendly, and welcoming opportunity to meet with native English speakers for conversation, homework help, to ask questions about Charlottesville, and to share and celebrate all cultures! Adult ESL speakers of all levels welcome! Community members welcome! No registration required. Come when you can! Mondays 6:30-8 pm and Fridays 1-3 pm at the Adult Learning Center in the IX building on 2 nd Street between Elliot Ave. and Monticello Ave. For more information, call Cherry at (434) 245-2817.

Literacy Volunteers of Charlottesville/Albemarle (LVCA)
LVCA offers free one-on-one tutoring for basic literacy, conversational partnering and group classes for non-native English speakers. To sign up email Jackie at jbright@literacyforall.org or call (434) 977-3838. LVCA operates Conversation Corner, free and open to the public, every Monday at 2:00 pm, where Limited English Proficiency speakers can practice their English. Please call in advance if you wish to attend. Also offered is a Citizen Preparation Course that prepares individuals for the naturalization interview; this course is free but a $20 donation is requested to cover the cost of books. LVCA is located downtown off High Street at 418 7th St. NE, across fom United Way. http://literacyforall.org/

English for Success! Casa del Padre offers English classes for Latinos. “Students will not only receive reading, writing and speaking instruction but, they will also gain confidence, cultural knowledge, computer skills, library cards, civics and much more.  We will help those that need it with Spanish literacy.” Contact Hazael Garay at 434-989-2508 or hazaelgaray@gmail.com Also, Casa del Padre offers Latinos an opportunity to learn English at: www.inglesparaelexito.webs.com

English Classes: Trinity Presbyterian Church
During the school year, beginning and intermediate English classes are free as are related didactic materials. Classes at this 3101 Fontaine Ave Ext location are on Sundays. Trinity welcomes other service providers to explore partnerships to enhance this service. For more information, contact Joe Magri at joe.magri@trinitycville.org. Click here for a Spanish language flyer.

English Classes: Tabor Presbyterian Church, Crozet
English classes are offered during the school year every Sunday morning from 8-9:30 at the Crozet church at 5804 Tabor Street. The classes are for native Spanish speakers at any English level and are free and open to the public. Newcomers are welcome. For more information, contact Mercedes at (540) 456-8631.

Leamos Juntos. During Spring 2009, Jackson-Via school teachers Elizabeth Jones and Amanda Sheriff organized a series of evening events for Spanish speaking families to support literacy and language development. The Charlottesville Public Schools program was funded by the Edgar and Shannon Foundation for Excellence in Education Grants. While there are no funds to continue the program, the CPS has an interest in doing so. For more information contact Cherry Stewart at Cherry.Stewart@ccs.k12.va.us

Free ESL Online courses through the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library. BYKI (Before You Know It) is a free online language-learning database at the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library (JMRL) for speakers of Spanish, English, Arabic, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, and Mandarin. Library patrons can access the BYKI system from computers at the library or at home via the Library’s website: www.jmrl.org/databases (click on Language in the left-hand column). To register you will need a library card, which is free and available for all community members at any JMRL branch. For help accessing this program, for English and Spanish flyers about this service, or for more information, visit the library or email Joyce MacDonald at macdonald@jmrl.org or call 979-7151, ext. 4.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

CARES (Coalition Assisting Residents in Emergency Situations)
This MACAA program provides emergency assistance in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Clients eligible for cash assistance must have a source of income but do not necessarily have to be working. Sources of income include but are not limited to employment, SSI/SSA, child support, disability, VIEW/TANF. Clients eligible for cash assistance must have income sufficient to meet regular monthly expenses. CARES resources are designed to meet one-time emergencies. Eligible clients can receive cash assistance one time per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30) in three main categories of need: eviction prevention, foreclosure prevention, utility termination prevention. In addition, there is a small amount of money for medical prescriptions. CARES has information in Spanish and a bilingual/bicultural worker who assists Latino Clients: Ana Espinoza, 434/295-3171 or a_espinoza@macaa.org For a Spanish language brochure on MACAA services, click here; for Spanish language information on MACAA/CARES Cooling Assistance Program, click here.

FUNDING SOURCES FOR INITIATIVES THAT SUPPORT LATINOS

Local funds are available to start up or strengthen initiatives serving the Latino population.
Please contact Holly Hatcher, Director of Programs, at (434) 220-3473 or hhatcher@cacfonline.org, or visit www.cacfonline.org for more information about the following sources.

Bama Works Fund
A Dave Matthews Band fund supporting charitable programs in the Charlottesville area. Grants are limited to the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Greene, Orange, Louisa, Fluvanna, Buckingham, and Nelson. Grants are made to tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3). Program interests include, but are not limited to: disadvantaged youth, needs of the disabled, protection of the environment, and the arts and humanities. The Fund generally does not support: endowment programs, fund raising events, annual appeals of well-established organizations, or grants to individuals.

Charlottesville Area Community Foundation (CACF).
A permanent endowment dedicated to improving the quality of life in Charlottesville and the Counties of Albemarle, Greene, Orange, Louisa, Fluvanna, Buckingham, and Nelson. With assets over $58 million, CACF makes grants of more than $3 million annually through its Community Endowment and its many donor-advised funds. Since its inception in 1967, the Community Foundation has made grants of more than $21 million to hundreds of nonprofit agencies.English classes for Adults are offered by Charlottesville and Albemarle Public Schools, by UVA, PVCC, and by Literacy Volunteers.

E Pluribus Unum Prizes , a national awards program, provides four $50,000 prizes annually to exceptional initiatives that promote immigrant integration, helping immigrants and their children adapt, thrive, and contribute to the United States or that bring immigrants and the native born together to build stronger, more cohesive communities. Application deadlines are in December. For more information and to access the online application visit http://www.migrationinformation.org/integrationawards

HEALTH PROMOTERS

CJ Health Promoters
Creciendo Juntos’ (CJ) Health Promoter Work Group has trained over two dozen Latino/a health promoters in Albemarle County and is providing them continuing training while deploying them in health promotion activities. For more information about its work and upcoming training opportunities visit http://www.cj-network.org/cjwgm/health.html or contact Jan Wolfe at 434/263-4000, 434/263-4858, 434/409-1636, lfwmn@gmail.com or wlfwmn@gmail.com

Rural Health Outreach Program
In addition to its active role in the CJ Health Promoter Work Group, RHOP has trained health promoters in the past in Nelson, Amherst, and Albemarle counties. For more information visit http://www.brmedical.org/RHOP.htm or contact Jan Wolfe at 434/263-4000, 434/263-4858, 434/409-1636, lfwmn@gmail.com or wlfwmn@gmail.com

INFANT & TODDLER SERVICES AND MOMS’ GROUPS

Infant Toddler Program
This Region Ten program provides early intervention support and services to infants and toddlers from birth through age three who are not developing as expected or who have a medical condition that can delay normal development. Early intervention supports and services focus on increasing the child's participation in family and community activities that are important to the family. In addition, supports and services focus on helping parents and other caregivers know how to find ways to help their child learn during everyday activities. Danielle Fuentes Johnson works with the Latino caseload. Danielle can be reached at daniellj@regionten.com

Infant Development Project
This Arc of the Piedmont early intervention program serves families with infants ages birth through three with disabilities, developmental delays, or who are at risk of developing delays. It offers developmental assessments, cognitive skills building, speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy for infants. Maria Williams provides services to the Latino community. Contact her at elbambutercero@hotmail.com or 434/882-4514.

Literacy & English Playgroups In Southwood
Children, Youth and Families Services (CYFS) started no-cost literacy and playgroup programs in Southwood in January 2008. During the 2009-10 school year, CYFS will be operating both programs again at the Southwood Community Center. CHIP will also be participating once a month in the Friday group. For flyers on both Southwood programs, visit http://www.cj-network.org/cjcomm_ann/docs_2009/CYFSflyers.doc For more information, contact Hilary Nagel at hnagel@cyfs.org or (434) 296-4118 ex 238. CYFS’ website is http://www.cyfs.org

Latina Mom’s Group: Hydraulic
The Hydraulic Latina Mom’s Group began in 2007, teaching mothers parenting skills, English, and advising them of community resources, while their children are being entertained. Multiple service providers are making this project possible: ACDSS Bright Stars (Ilene Railton & Sue Tansey), the ARC’s Infant Toddler Services(Maria Williams), and Albemarle County School’s ESOL program (Laura Brown and Paula Mehring). For more information, contact Paula Mehring (ACPS) at 434/295-7936 or pmehring@nexet.net

Latina Mom’s Group: Southwood
This spin off of the Hydraulic Latina Mom’s Group began in September 2009 and is also teaching moms parenting skills, English, and advising them of community resources, while their children are being entertained. Participating service providers include Habitat, ACDSS Bright Stars (Kim Rambow), the ARC’s Infant Toddler Services(Marie Williams), and Albemarle County School’s ESOL program (Laura Brown and Paula Mehring). For more information, contact Paula Mehring (ACPS) at 434/295-7936 or pmehring@nexet.net

INFORMATION & REFERRAL (GENERAL)

United Way Information & Referral Services for Latinos
Monday thru Friday, 9 am – 4 pm, Martha Trujillo, from Mexico, provides extensive I & R services to area Latinos at 434/972-1703. A Spanish language flyer about the services Martha provides is at: http://www.unitedwaytja.org/Downloads/InformationAndReferral/Publicidad%20.pdf Service providers can also stop by the United Way office at 806 East High to pick up pocket size Spanish language resource guides for their Latino clients.

LATINA GIRLS

Latinas Group
This weekly discussion group geared toward Latina girls was started in February 2008 by Laura Brown, from the Virginia Migrant Education Program and the Albemarle County ESOL program. Laura started the group in response to feedback from parents concerned about the difficult and sometimes culture-specific issues facing Latina teens. For a June 2008 article about the initiative, click here.
Location: Burley Middle School
Contact: Laura Brown, lbrown2@k12albemarle.org, or Coutney Stewart, cstewart@k12albemarle.org

LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Legal Aid Justice Center
Address: 1000 Preston Avenue, Suite A, Charlottesville 22902
Telephone: (434) 977-0553 • 1-800-578-8111 • Fax (434) 977-0558
Website: http://www.justice4all.org
Contact: Tim Freilich, Extension 111, tim@justice4all.org
Contact: Doug Ford, UVA Immigration Law Clinic, Extension 136, doug@justice4all.org
Contact: Phil Storey, phil@justice4all.org
Contact: Dan Nagin, UVA Family Resource Clinic, a joint project with LAJC, 434/-243-4320, dnagin@virginia.edu
Contact: John Conover or Erin Trodden, (434) 977-0553, john@justice4all.org, erin@justice4all.org
Bilingual (English/Spanish) lawyers help qualified immigrants on many issues and invite reports about local immigration detentions. Tim is the point person for Virginia immigration bills and laws and also helps immigrants with employment problems, like not receiving pay. Doug assists immigrants who have been unjustly taken into custody by the police or immigration. Dan’s office assists immigrants who confront a language barrier when trying to access services from government offices, hospitals, and other agencies. Phil has also been focusing on language access issues. Reports about suspicious housing policies should be directed to John; while he is not bilingual, Erin is.

Central Virginia Legal Aid Society Services
CVLAS does family law, custody cases, domestic violence cases, bankruptcy, garnishment, foreclosure, Wills, Powers of Attorney, advance directives, and some consumer and housing cases. Because it receives federal funding, its ability to assist undocumented individuals is restricted. CVLAS can only provide services to non-U.S. citizens who: (1) have permanent resident status, or (2) have a Work Visa, or (3) are married to a U.S. citizen or are the parent of a U.S. citizen or are unmarried, under age 21 & the child of a U.S. citizen, and have applied for permanent resident status & not been rejected, or (4) were admitted as a refugee, granted asylum, or granted withholding from a deportation order, or (5) where the applicant or applicant’s child has been battered or subjected to extreme cruelty in the U.S. and the applicant is seeking assistance necessary to assist the victim from an abusive situation or ameliorate the current effect of the abuse or protect against future abuse. The legal assistance includes, but is not limited to, obtaining a civil protection order, divorce, child custody, child and spousal support, housing, public benefits, employment, abuse/neglect, juvenile proceedings, small claims cases, and contempt actions. For a brochure in English, click here; for a fact sheet, click here.
Location: 1000 Preston Avenue, Charlottesville
Telephone: Applicants can call 296-8851 (local) or toll-free at 1-866-534-5243 or 1-800-390-9983 Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and ask for the Intake Department. Spanish speaking applicants can call Marina Battistini at 804-200-6033 (direct) or toll-free at 1-800-868-1012, ext. 3012, during the same days & hours.

Charlottesville Immigration Law Center
Address: 226 Douglas Ave., Charlottesville, VA 22902
Telephone: (434) 220-2799
Web Site: http://cvilc.com
Contact: Eddie Summers, es@ocho.com
The Center provides services covering the full range of immigration issues from filing of applications through representation before the immigration and federal courts. It not only helps individuals but provides services to employers of immigrants and has an informative web page about the documents immigrants should be obtaining in order to qualify for future benefit programs (http://cvilc.com/outreach.html). Mr. Summers is bilingual (English/Spanish).

Law Office of Elva A. Mason
Provides bilingual “for fee” services covering civil and family law (child custody, child support, domestic violence, landlord tenant problems, etc). She is also abreast of education/school matters as she was on the Charlottesville City School Board.
Location: 509 12th Street, NW, Charlottesville
Telephone: (434) 984-6664 or email EMasonLegal@aol.com

Regional Manager for Civil Rights
Persons and organizations wishing to report specific incidences of language barriers at area agencies (hospitals, schools, police, social services, and other offices receiving federal funding) may do so anonymously.
Contact: Paul Cushing, at 215-861-4441 (phone), 800-368-1019 (hotline), 215-861-4431 (fax) or Paul.Cushing@hhs.gov

MEDIA

Forward-Adelante
The bilingual magazine was first published in August 2008 to connect “American business owners [with the] growing Hispanic business arena. … The magazine gives business owners access to the growing Hispanic population and it gives Hispanics and other immigrants tips on opening businesses of their own. … The main purpose of Forward is to showcase entrepreneurialism, to gather the stories of entrepreneurs how they started, what are their struggles, what are their trials and errors...’"
Website: http://www.forwardvirginia.com
Contact: Karina Tarbell at karina@forwardvirginia.com or (434) 906-2206; or Olga Morse at (434) 690-4037 or olga@forwardvirginia.com

Nuevas Raíces
Spanish Language Newspaper published every Thursday in Harrisonburg and distributed in Charlottesville at the Southwood store, the Albemarle County Building at 5 th Street, and at Latino businesses. The paper was sold in December to Maria Peña who welcomes suggestions about articles dealing with Latino oriented initiatives, new Latino businesses and Latino’s working in the community: maria@nuevasraices.com
Website (In Spanish): http://www.nuevasraices.com

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR CHILDREN

Medicaid/FAMIS

This insurance program is available to U.S. born children of low income parents, regardless of the parent’s legal status, and to pregnant women with U.S. citizenship. There are two basic differences between Medicaid and FAMIS: income limits and administrator (Social Services or FAMIS). Children who are not eligible for Medicaid and meet FAMIS eligibility requirements are covered by FAMIS. Spanish language applications are available online at http://www.famis.org/apply.cfm?lang=Spanish## and at Social Services offices. Martha Trujillo at the Thomas Jefferson Area United Way is bilingual and can assist Spanish speaking clients through the FAMIS application process. Martha can be reached at (434) 972-1703 or mtrujillo@unitedwaytja.org

CHIP

CHIP works with families with children under seven, assessing their needs and strengths and responding with services that promote health and well being. Its office is located at 1469 Greenbrier Place. Its phone is 434-964-4700. CHIP’s Executive Director, Judy Smith, may be reached at 964-4701 or judy.smith@jachip.org CHIP has four bilingual Family Support Workers: Erica Mateo (964-4712), Blanca Owens (964-4722), Carolina Ortiz (964-4742), and Teri Lamb (964-4710). http://www.jachip.org

Blue Ridge Care Connections

BRCC offers advice, education and support to all families with children from birth to 21 regardless of income requirements. It can also offer financial assistance and support with some pre-approved medical bills, equipment and medications. Its bilingual website is http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/blueridgecc

WIC

WIC helps to correct or prevent malnutrition in low-income pregnant and breastfeeding women, women who recently had a baby, infants and children up to 5 years old who are at health risk due to inadequate nutrition. WIC provides supplemental food, offers professional nutrition education and makes referrals based on health screening and assessments of need. Its office is located at the Dept. of Health, 1138 Rose Hill Drive (off Preston, between Bodos and Washington Park). For referrals, call 972-6206 and ask for a Spanish speaking worker for your Latino Client.

Dental

The Community Children's Dental Center offers preventive and restorative dental services, including xrays and cleanings. Medicaid/FAMIS typically covers all costs at the Center. Costs for children who do not have Medicaid/FAMIS will be based on their parents’ income. The Center is located at 259 Hydraulic Ridge Road, Suite 101; telephone: 293-9300. It tries to have bilingual volunteers to help with Latino patients.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE PROVIDERS

Latina Women’s Support Group
Elizabeth Irvin of the Women’s Initiative offers a no-cost Wednesday morning support group for Latina women at the Word of Faith Church next to Albemarle High School. Transportation and childcare is provided. For more information, contact Elizabeth Irvin at 434/964-6472.

Directory of Bilingual Health Service Providers
This work in progress is not meant to be an endorsement by Creciendo Juntos (CJ) of any specific provider. To add other service providers or make other changes to the director, please write lhemby@albemarle.org To view the directory, click here

MIGRANT SERVICES

Albemarle Regional Migrant Education
This program provides quality academic support services and advocacy to migrant students and out of school migrant youth – between ages 3 and 21 - in the central Virginia region. The purpose of these services is to enable migrant students to learn English, reach challenging state academic goals, receive a high school diploma or GED, continue postsecondary education, and improve employment opportunities. The Migrant Education staff work in schools, homes, and migrant camps to aid the students and young adults in achieving their educational goals. Bilingual contacts include Migrant Advocates Paula Mehring, 434/295-7936 or pmehring@nexet.net ; and Laura Brown, 434/296-3872, Ext. 3 or lbrown2@k12albemarle.org Its website is http://schoolcenter.k12albemarle.org/education/dept/dept.php?sectiondetailid=18317

Immigrant Advocacy Program
Among its services, this Legal Aid Justice Center program helps migrant farmworkers, day laborers and other low-wage immigrant workers by preparing and distributing educational materials and visiting areas where workers gather, work and live to counsel them about their legal rights; helping them to recover unpaid wages. Contact Tim Freilich at tim@justice4all.org and visit its webpage at http://www.justice4all.org/our_programs/vjc

Rural Health Outreach Mobile Clinic
The RHOP Mobile Clinic provides bilingual medical services from checkups, pap smears, blood work, to referrals. It is currently operating only in migrant camps. For more information, contact Jan Wolfe at 434/263-4858, 434/409-1636, jan@rhop-brmc.org or wlfwmn@gmail.com or visit http://www.brmedical.org/RHOP.htm

UVA Madison House Migrant Aid
This program serves Albemarle County and Charlottesville region's migrant community. Through Homework Helpers, Hispanic Family Night, International Family Night and Adult Tutoring, volunteers tutor migrant workers and their majority Spanish-speaking families in English as a Second Language, general academic skills, and other learning opportunities. Contact Head Program Director Caroline Anaya at cja2h@virginia.edu

Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Advisory Board
Lou Hart is a member of this VEC body. Virginia has both a Governor's Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers Advisory Board and an Interagency Migrant Worker Policy Committee, and VEC provides staff support to both, with the Commissioner serving as Committee Chair. In concert with the Board, the Committee reviews, coordinates, evaluates and addresses issues regarding migrant and seasonal farmworkers who help tend Virginia's crops each year. Contact Lou at 434/295-7682 or louwhart@aol.com

POLICE

Albemarle County Police Department
Officer Todd Hopwood is responsible for media and community relations and is the department’s liaison to the Latino community. He is eager to meet with groups – churches, community groups, neighborhoods, and schools – to talk about the department’s interests in improving relationships with Latinos. Salvadoran Officer Carlos Valladares, or another one of the department’s four bilingual officers, often accompanies Todd. The department’s Chief is the State coordinator for the 2009 Special Olympics and Todd is interested in suggestions to include potential Latino participants. Contact Todd at (434) 296-5807.or at hopwoodt@albemarle.org

Lt. James Bond is coordinating the Neighborhood Watch group in Southwood, a 100 acre trailer park whose residents are over 60% Latino. He would like to incorporate more Latino residents in the group and invites churches, community groups and individuals to help him achieve that goal. Contact him at bondj@albemarle.org

Charlottesville Police Department
Lt. David Shifflett, Administrative Services Bureau Commander, worked on the department’s LEP policy and is interested in enhancing the department’s relationship and customer service with the city’s Latino population. He invites community input and participation in these goals, including invitations for the department to participate in Latino outreach at churches and community events. Contact him at (434) 970-3999 or shiffled@charlottesville.org

EDUCATION FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Applications for the following programs are typically due in March for the programs beginning in the following September. Spanish language applications are available and for the 2009-10 school year, both programs used the same application.

Head Start
The MACAA governed program offers low-income children, 3 and 4 years old, with comprehensive preschool services that promote school readiness, social, emotional, and physical health.  It also works with their parents, connecting them to community resources. Toby Lyons is the program’s bilingual caseworker. Toby can be reached at: 434/ 295-3171 x 3009 or tlyons@macaa.org

Bright Stars
The goal of this Albemarle Social Services program for low income 4 year olds is to provide early learning experiences and comprehensive social supports for students and families that address risk factors that can lead to early academic failure.  The program is offered at some Albemarle County school locations and is eager to have Latino and other immigrant children. For more information contact Charity Haines at 972-4010 or chaines@albemarle.org

PUBLIC SCHOOL SPANISH LINES

Area public schools have a Spanish Phone Line available to its Latino families. This resource allows Latino families to contact schools with their comments, questions, or concerns.

Charlottesville City Schools: (434) 245-2548
Albemarle Public Schools: (434) 296-6517

RURAL HEALTH OUTREACH PROGRAM MOBILE CLINIC

The RHOP Mobile Clinic provides bilingual medical services from checkups, pap smears, blood work, to referrals. It is currently operating only in migrant camps. For more information, contact Jan Wolfe at 434/263-4858, 434/409-1636, jan@rhop-brmc.org or wlfwmn@gmail.com or visit http://www.brmedical.org/LHCS.htm

SEXUAL ASSAULT

The Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA) serves women, children and men who have experienced sexual assault and their families and friends with a variety of services including counseling, advocacy and accompaniment, outreach, and self defense. Latino Clients should be referred to Aaron Miller at (434) 295-7273, aaron@saracville.org SARA’s web site is located at: http://www.sexualassaultresources.org

SOCCER

The Organización Latina de Fútbol en Charlottesville y Albemarle is the area’s oldest Latino soccer league. For more information contact Jesús Ayala 434/465-1282 or Pedro Orea 434/836-0252.

The Charlottesville Club de Fútbol is an indoor soccer league organized in late 2008. For information, contact Belen Martinez, 434/ 249-2966 or charlottesvillefc@gmail.com

SOCIAL SERVICES

Both Albemarle County and the City of Charlottesville’s Departments of Social Services have Spanish language phone lines and bilingual (English/Spanish) front desk staff to assist Latinos in accessing services. While other bilingual workers are few, Social Services’ staff is obliged by federal and state laws to use interpreter services when communicating with Limited English Proficiency clients.

Charlottesville City: (434) 970-3400.

Albemarle County: (434) 972-4010. To report a language barrier problem, contact John Freeman, Assistant Director.

STRENGTHENING FAMILIES

Region Ten’s Strengthening Families Program
This family-focused prevention program providing support for families with 6-11 year olds lasts 14 weeks and has three components: a behavioral parent training program, a children's skills training program, and family skills training program. Primary outcomes include reduced family conflict, aggressiveness and substance abuse, as well as improved youth social skills, parenting skills, and family communication and organization. The program is free of charge to participants. Childcare and transporation is also offered free of charge to those in need. The Spanish language program was not available during the 2008-09 school year; it will be offered again beginning Spring 2010. To view a January 2008 power point presentation about the program, click here.
Contact: Robert Wadden
Telephone (434)972-1881
Email: robertw@regionten.org

UVA VOLUNTEERS & OTHER INITIATIVES

Volunteers Available: UVA Social Issues in Medicine Class
Dela Alexander coordinates this class of first or second semester medical students who are placed for 30 hours (over 10 weeks) of service learning with a community organization as part of this required class. Many of the students are bilingual and have worked in Latin America and/or with Latino populations in the US. These volunteers prefer to work in medical settings but can also devote time to non-medical initiatives since the idea of the class is to expose future doctors to the poor and to different cultures. For more information on how to recruit these volunteers, contact Dela at da7r@virginia.edu

UVA Madison House
This agency operates almost 20 student-led volunteer programs, including the ESL Program and Migrant Aid. For more information on Madison House initiatives that serve the Latino community, visit its web site at http://scs.student.virginia.edu/~madison or contact Karver Bolton at karver@madisonhouse.org

WOMEN’S HEALTH

La Clinica
This Clinic is staffed with Spanish-speaking clinicians and social workers who provide general obstetrics and routine gynecological care. It is open Tuesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments must be made by telephone. Callers will hear a recording in English and in Spanish instructing them on how to make one. The services are offered on a sliding payment scale and Medicaid is available to those who qualify. For more information, contact Elizabeth Irvin at (434) 964-6472 or eirvin@thewomensinitiative.org.