Survivors of Torture International

Survivors of Torture, International (SURVIVORS) provides torture survivors and their families who live in San Diego County heal physically, psychologically and socially; build effective support networks; become active positive members of their communities; and lead productive and meaningful lives.

• Approximately 35,000 torture survivors live in San Diego County.
• Most of the torture survivors were tortured because of their identity or because they defended human rights. Many were professionals or leaders in their homelands.
• Founded in 1997, SURVIVORS is the only accredited torture treatment center in San Diego County.
• Approximately 86 cents out of every dollar that SURVIVORS receives supports client services.
• Our mission is to facilitate the healing of survivors and their families; educate professionals and the public about torture and its consequences; and advocate for torture survivors and the abolition of torture.
• Through SURVIVORS’ specialized holistic program, torture survivors receive FREE medical, dental, psychiatric, psychological, and social services, such as referrals for employment, education and legal assistance.

For over 25 years, SURVIVORS has served and cared for over 3,000 individuals who have fled from over 90 different countries where torture is prevalent and speak more than sixty-eight different languages. Many were tortured because of their religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, political viewpoints, or defense of human rights. These men, women, and children have experienced or been forced to witness horrific acts of intimidation and aggression. However, seeking public and health support services is challenging for torture survivors who have few, if any, connections or support when they arrive.

SURVIVORS serves as a support system and “hub” that brings medical, psychological, social, spiritual, educational, employment, legal, resettlement and other services together to form a seamless integrated approach to torture treatment services in San Diego County. Our staff, contracted clinicians and professional interpreters are able to provide activities, health and social services, and other materials to every torture survivor we serve and their families in over 200 languages, free of charge.

Survivors are brave and resourceful people, but they have endured torture, dangerous escapes from their homelands, and uncertain acceptance in a strange land. Your donation is paying for the help they need to heal and begin new lives.

To learn more about our services, how to access our services, or how to get involved please visit our website at notorure.org.