June 26, 2012

“Last year I was very vulnerable, I couldn’t talk about my country or my past. I was totally afraid of new places and new people.  Now thanks to the Program for Survivors of Torture, I’m getting help and I’m feeling better.” – Client, Moldova

Dear Friends:

June 26 is the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.   On this day in 1987, the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment went into effect. This is a day to educate and empower the citizens of the world to speak up against the unspeakable.

The Program for Survivors of Torture needs your support, and asks you to stand with us to recognize this day by making a donation to help our clients rebuild their lives.  PSOT is the first and largest program in the New York City area providing comprehensive medical, mental health, legal and social services to more than 700 survivors of torture and war trauma. With a wait list of nearly five months, the need for services has never been higher.

Relief from the trauma of torture enables clients to marshal their inherent capacities for adjusting, coping, and healing. They can regain their health and dignity, enabling them to reclaim their independence, and successfully reestablish their lives. Our survivors have endured incredible suffering and have overcome massive obstacles to get to New York City.  However, they are alive, they are here, and they need your help.

Please stand up with us on this day and support our work making a fully tax-deductible donation to The Survivor Fund; Bellevue Hospital Center; 462 First Avenue, CD 738; New York, NY 10016.

On behalf of our Program clients and staff, we thank you.

Warmest regards,

Allen S. Keller, MD, Program Director      

Sarah Haacke, Director of Operations