Tri-County Crisis Center

“My 16 year-old daughter was in a violent relationship with her boyfriend. He was controlling both mentally and physically and threatened her if she didn’t get a tattoo of his name on her body that she would suffer the consequences. After the relationship ended, she was in need of a tattoo removal procedure. Making numerous phone calls to different dermatologists and agencies, we got no help. Until I got online and got in touch with Tri -Country Crisis Center and e-mailed Maria DiBari, she came to our rescue and my daughter got the help she needed and pro bono cosmetic surgery.  My daughter and I are appreciative of TCCC and the resources they have given us. My daughter feels like a weight has been lifted off of her shoulders. Thank you, Maria, and TCCC for helping us.”

“After years of not getting the help that I needed from several domestic violence organizations after a life threatening domestic violence incident, I turned to Maria for help after reading her blog, A Movement Against Domestic Violence. She led me to the right resources and made sure I got the help and assistance I needed as a victim. Maria directed me to Discovery Health where I was offered reconstructive surgery and to Give Back A Smile where they fixed my entire smile.”

“When I was turned away from my domestic violence lawyer from Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, Maria helped me speak out about what they were doing to me. They were supposed to help me but what they were actually doing was putting me into a more difficult situation. It was hard for me to speak out because of my poor English, but she always encouraged me to be strong.

It was very hard to receive proper help from the DV organizations in NYC. I had to call many times and when I got to talk, they gave me other phone numbers or transferred me to somebody else. Chances were very slim to talk to them. I felt I was alone but I was able to reach Maria all the time. She didn’t ignore me. Maria gave me phone numbers that I should call and email addresses that I should contact. She was one of the most helpful people.” 

“Linda Riccardulli was my sister and a mother. Losing her to domestic violence was and still is a painful and bewildering experience. Once the rush of immediate arrangements were taken care of, we felt lost. I came across Maria DiBari’s blog and was struck by the frank and practical information. When I reached out she responded immediately offering guidance and help. She and Alyssa Kogon have been untiringly supportive. Unlike established DV organizations, they have been respectful of my family and of Linda’s memory. Although the pain of our loss is as sharp as ever, I no longer feel helpless. I am so grateful.”