About Us
Who are we?
Green Ribbon Peace Campaign
Launch of the Green Ribbon Peace Campaign in primary schools.
Our History
Established in 1982, the Bahamas Crisis Centre was founded by Dr. Sandra Dean-Patterson after she witnessed the growing need for support services for victims of physical and substance abuse. While working at Sandilands, she encountered numerous women and children affected by abuse and recognized the need for an organization dedicated to assisting them.
The Centre initially operated from the Knowles House, but as demand for its services increased, it relocated to the Accident & Emergency Department at Princess Margaret Hospital, where it remained for approximately ten years. During this period, the organization expanded its services to include support for men and boys.
Originally known as the Women’s Crisis Centre, the organization changed its name in 1997 to the Bahamas Crisis Centre to reflect its commitment to serving all individuals in need of assistance, regardless of gender.
Who Are We
The Bahamas Crisis Centre
The Bahamas Crisis Centre (TCC) is a non-profit organization established to provide intervention, prevention, advocacy, and support services to men, women, and children affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, and all forms of gender-based violence. The Centre is sustained through the dedicated efforts of a small professional staff, including an administrator and secretary, alongside a committed team of volunteers from diverse backgrounds who share a common passion for serving and empowering those in need.
Advocacy
The Centre has been at the forefront of advocacy from its inception, through its petitions, candle light vigils, marches and rallies resulting in the successful passage of many laws to protect women and children and vulnerable populations. The Centre continues to be the preeminent Centre that deals with survivors of gender-based violence and is represented on the Trafficking in Persons (TIPS) Committee providing counselling for victims who have been trafficked.
Other activities include, an Early Intervention Program for Children Exposed to Violence, A Children’s Literacy Program, The Green Ribbon/Bracelet Peace Campaign in the Primary Schools, and A Night of Hope and Healing for sexual assault survivors, A White Ribbon Campaign which nengages men and boys as allies opposed to violence against women and girls. Exhibitions at the mall. Community walk abouts, educational seminars and training of community groups and the observation of the 16 days of activism.
For over four decades, the Bahamas Crisis Centre (BCC) has stood as a beacon of hope, compassion, and empowerment—offering vital support to individuals and families affected by violence, abuse, and trauma.
Our Beginning
Founded in 1982 as The Women’s Crisis Centre, the organization began as a six-month pilot project co-sponsored by the Psychiatric Social Work Department and the Community Mental Health Centre of Sandilands Hospital.
The need for such a centre became clear when a growing number of women were being admitted to hospitals with psychiatric illnesses and substance abuse issues linked to domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Operating from a single room in the Community Mental Health Centre at Princess Margaret Hospital, the Centre’s earliest volunteers—including members of LINKS—answered calls for help and began a legacy of service that continues today.
By 1995, as more boys and men reached out for support, the Centre evolved into the Bahamas Crisis Centre—reflecting its inclusive mission to serve all victims of violence.
Growing Through Partnership and Support
From its humble beginnings, the BCC grew through generous partnerships and community involvement.
- In 1988, the Lyford Cay Foundation funded the expansion of services and provided office and educational supplies.
- The Centre introduced Hotline Training in 1990, empowering volunteers to better respond to callers in crisis.
- Weekly Women’s Support Groups, led by dedicated facilitators Mrs. Salomie Gibson and Mrs. Sandra Neville, began in 1991.
- The beloved Annual Children’s Christmas Party continues to bring joy to children from affected families.
Trailblazing Advocacy and Recognition
The BCC made history as the first organization in the Caribbean to provide comprehensive support services to survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
Its outstanding work has earned national and international recognition:
- Added to the Ministry of Housing and Social Services’ list of charities in 1994
- Recognized by the Commonwealth Health Secretariat in 1997 as a model of excellence in women’s health care
- Granted consultative status at the United Nations in 1998, becoming the first Bahamian NGO to receive this distinction
- That same year, the BCC hosted its first regional conference on domestic violence, bringing together Caribbean leaders and advocates for change.
Innovative Programs and Campaigns
The Centre also spearheaded critical advocacy and support initiatives including:
- The first rape kits provided to Princess Margaret Hospital’s Emergency Room (funded by Lyford Cay Foundation)
- Establishment of the Agape Room, a private space for survivors of sexual assault
- Rape Survivor Advocacy and Domestic Violence Support Programs, placing volunteers in hospitals and police stations to assist victims
- Court Watch Advocacy Program, offering courtroom support for survivors
- Early Intervention Program for children exposed to violence (est. 2017)
- Women’s Empowerment (WE) Program, fostering resilience and independence
For over four decades, the Bahamas Crisis Centre (BCC) has stood as a beacon of hope, compassion, and empowerment—offering vital support to individuals and families affected by violence, abuse, and trauma.
Changing Laws, Changing Lives
The BCC’s advocacy has played a key role in shaping legislation to protect victims of violence:
- Sexual Offenders Act (1991) – Expanded the definition of rape and criminalized incest.
- Child Protection Act (2000) – Established children’s rights and penalties for violators.
- Evidence Act Amendment – Enabled child victims to give testimony on camera.
- Protection Orders Act (2008) – Pioneering legislation for domestic violence protection.
- Mandatory reporting laws for suspected child abuse and sexual violence.
The Journey Continues
From one small room in 1982 to a nationally respected institution, the Bahamas Crisis Centre continues its mission—empowering survivors, educating communities, and advocating for a future free of violence.