Sakhi for South Asian Women is a nonprofit dedicated to ending violence against women and to support survivors of domestic violence. Sakhi was founded in 1989 and operates in New York’s various and diverse South Asian communities. The organization engages in outreach, attempting to mobilize the communities it is active in to end domestic violence and the culture of silence that often surrounds and exacerbates the issue. Additionally, Sakhi provides a safe space for survivors of domestic violence.
Swarna Chalasani was killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In her memory, an economic empowerment fund was set up. The Swarna Chalasani Economic Empowerment Fund gives grants to women wishing to gain greater financial independence a crucial step to ensure survivors of domestic violence can escape dangerous and damaging environments. The fund has helped 93 women, giving out $87,000 in total. A little less than 80% of the money paid out has gone to tuition.