Center for victims of clergy abuse holds open house

Published: 2005-07-18

HOLYOKE, Mass. (CNS) -- Believed to be the first of its kind in the United States, the Victim Resource Center in Holyoke is helping victims of clergy sexual abuse in the Springfield area. At least one of the architects of the center, himself a victim of abuse, said knowing that others are being assisted has helped him tremendously. "This program was my saving grace," said Martin Bono, one of the 46 who settled abuse cases with the Diocese of Springfield in July 2004 for a total of more than $7.8 million. "This money that I got from the settlement absolutely meant nothing to me," Bono told those gathered at an open house at the center June 28. The facility opened last December and is located in the Mount Tom Mental Health Center. The center provides therapy for its clients and also offers a range of community services such as job placement, continuing education, housing and budgeting. Staff members also refer people to other agencies for services they do not offer.

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