It is the mission of Vera House
        to end all domestic and sexual violence
        to assist families in crisis
        to support those affected by domestic and sexual violence
        to live safe, self-sufficient lives
        to empower women, men and children
        & to promote a culture of equality and respect in relationships.
       

On January 1, 2005
two agencies with similar missions,
Rape Crisis Center & Vera House became one
merging their programs and staff in order to provide
the same quality services . . .
"together for hope and healing".

The merged Vera House, Inc. continues a 30-year tradition
of quality service to the Central New York community.
The mission statement reflects the history of both merged agencies.

Rape Crisis Center was founded in 1974
by committed volunteers who saw the need for crisis, support
and advocacy services for adult rape survivors.
This mission grew over the years to include services for
child victims of sexual assault and their families,
preventive education programming and a team of nurses
who provide 24-hour response for victims of sexual assault.

Vera House was founded in 1977
by a group of concerned individuals led by Sister Mary Vera, CSJ who recognized the need for emergency sheltering services for women in crisis.
This original mission blossomed into a wide range of
domestic violence services including outreach and advocacy,
domestic violence education programming, children's counseling,
the Syracuse Area Domestic and Sexual Violence Coalition
and a domestic violence education program
for male perpetrators of violence.