SALINAS VALLEY — A new nonprofit organization, Holding on to Hope, has been formed to bring a Family Justice Center to Salinas, a place where survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse and human trafficking can find help and healing under one roof.
Monterey County’s first Family Justice Center opened in King City in 2024, providing comprehensive services to South Monterey County residents. Holding on to Hope is now working to ensure the same level of access for families in other parts of the Salinas Valley and northern Monterey County by raising funds to establish a Family Justice Center in Salinas.
“At a Family Justice Center, survivors don’t have to navigate a maze of agencies or retell their story again and again,” said Jeanine Pacioni, Monterey County’s district attorney and board president of Holding on to Hope. “Law enforcement, healthcare, counseling, legal aid and advocacy come together in one safe, welcoming place, making it possible for families to find safety, healing, and hope close to home.”
Recognized nationwide as a best practice in supporting survivors of violence and abuse, the Family Justice Center model unites essential services in one location. This coordinated approach reduces barriers to access, minimizes retraumatization and addresses the root causes of abuse to help end generational cycles of violence.
Holding on to Hope is also part of the 2025 Monterey County Gives! campaign, an annual community fundraising effort that amplifies local impact through matching gifts. Every contribution made through the campaign will go directly toward the design, construction and operation of the new Salinas Family Justice Center.
Starting Nov. 13, visit montereycountygives.com/holding to make a donation.
“Our vision is a future where survivors in every corner of Monterey County can quickly and safely access the help they need,” Pacioni said. “This new center will build on the progress made in King City and ensure support is within reach for families in the greater Salinas area.”
Holding on to Hope (holdingontohopefjc.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting survivors through the creation of a Family Justice Center in Salinas. Through fundraising, partnerships and community engagement, the organization supports the development of a safe, supportive and collaborative environment for survivors of abuse and their families.
“Together, we can hold on to hope, and build a safer, stronger community for all,” according to the organization.
