02/21/07 Family Service of RI Forms Domestic Violence Response Team with East Providence Police--With Help from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI   Family Service of Rhode Island has formed a domestic violence response team to assist, with local police, East Providence children and families victimized by domestic violence. The innovative program is made possible by a $27,000 grant from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island's BlueAngel Community Health Grant Program. The announcement was made at the East Providence police station today (2/21/07). (L-R) East Providence City Councilwoman Valerie Perry, city manager Richard Brown, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI's Linda Newton, Family Service of RI's Margaret Holland McDuff, Mayor Isadore Ramos, Family Service of RI's Christine Santos LCSW, Laura McNamara of the East Providence Chamber, and Thomas Aguire of the East Providence Police Department. "We particularly want to intervene when children are involved because trauma can negatively affect them academically and create problems with personal and professional relationships for years to come," said Margaret Holland McDuff, Family Service of Rhode Island CEO. Services will include follow-up visits to victims by bilingual Family Service of Rhode Island staff with the police to ensure victims are accessing needed counseling and other support services.  At times, on-scene crisis intervention will be available.  The agency's staff will also do regular "ride alongs" in police cruisers to assist with social service needs that East Providence residents may have. "We believe in giving back to the community and the Blue Angel Community Health Grant program is a large part of our philanthropic program," said Linda Newton, vice president of community relations and employee services at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island. Joining them in making the announcement were Mayor Isadore Ramos, City Councilwoman Valerie Perry, Senator Paul Moura, city manager Richard Brown, Police Chief Hubert Paquette and other community representatives. (end)   Read the Providence Journal's coverage of the press conference by clicking here. Read the East Providence Post's coverage of the press conference by clicking here.                                           (must have Adobe Reader)