STC Criminal Justice students come together to support victims of domestic violence

In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Criminal Justice Club at South Texas College’s Pecan campus organized a benefit drive to support victims of domestic violence through Mujeres Unidas.

Students collected pampers, wipes, baby items, toys, towels, canned goods, toiletries and clothing, which was then collected by agency representatives.

“Those in law enforcement quickly find out that they are also part social worker. Our job is to help people, not necessarily just arrest people,” said Criminal Justice Instructor Homar Venecia, who spent 22 years as a peace officer. “What I'm trying to instill in my students is that they have to be active in their community. This is just one way we can contribute to people who are facing hardship in their time of need. Our department is very motivated to help us and assist us to continue projects like this.”

Valeria Ascencio, who is studying for her associate degree in Criminal Justice, says faculty emphasizes working as a team by helping communities just as much as helping each other succeed through the program.

“It means a lot to be able to give back to our community, and I think that it’s so important to have a chance to do that,” Ascencio said. “I know I speak for our entire class when I say that we are so grateful to have received this experience working with a very important organization that deals with women and children who need help. There is no better feeling than to give back.”  

Mujeres Unidas, also known as Women Together Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1978 to provide a safe haven for victims of family violence and their children.

In Hidalgo County in 2021, the agency assisted nearly 5,800 residents who utilized its shelter and support programs, according to agency statistics.  

“Due to family violence, many victims along with their children flee their homes to seek shelter at Mujeres Unidas,” said Nelda Hernandez, Mujeres Unidas volunteer program coordinator in a statement. “The Mujeres Unidas Board of Directors and staff wishes to thank all of the students who helped make this benefit drive such a big success. Please know that Mujeres Unidas appreciates all the support we get from the community as this allows us to continue providing shelter, support services and basic needs to the families.”

Vencia says he looks forward to working with organizations like Mujeres Unidas throughout the holiday season, which is often the most difficult time for struggling families.

“This is one of the hardest seasons when it comes to domestic violence. Stress levels are high because people in local communities often do not have enough,” he said. “I feel it’s our job at STC to encourage students to get active for their communities and spread that message of giving to the people. To serve and protect means helping people in need.”