Federación Mexicana de Mujeres Universitarias
Prevention of Household Violence

Family violence, an area of increasing concern in Mexico, is the focus of the project run by the Mexican Federation of University Women (FEMU). The "Prevention of Household Violence" project provides immediate and direct shelter and support for victims of domestic violence.

Three centres have already been established under the project, providing immediate temporary accommodation and assistance to women and children in need. Members of FEMU volunteer their time and skills at these centres, maintaining a permanent staff of doctors, psychologists, social workers, lawyers and trainers. In addition, community self-help workshops and other educational and information services, aimed at reducing domestic violence, are organised in each of the centres by FEMU members. Recently the Mexican Federation of University Women was called upon to advise 2 local government bodies about constructing similar shelters for victims of violence.

In 2005 359 women and children were received in the shelters for stays of up to four months.  A patio in one of the shelters was remodelled to provide a play area for children.

In 2006 FEMU continued to provide support for 120 women and children at all three centres.Courses were provided for shelter residents and staff received training courses.  A sensitising video was professionally produced on the theme of family violence and presented to the media by Cynthia Klitbo, a well known Mexican actress, well known for her feminist activities.  3000 brochures were also printed and distributed on the subject of family violence and destructive relationships and state and national radio and TV held interviews on the subject.