WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa, Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, awarded Margarita Rocha with the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation as part of the Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus.
Since 2005, the Caucus has hosted the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus Awards ceremony, which honors outstanding public servants who have dedicated their lives to helping victims of crime. Each Member of Congress was given an opportunity to nominate an individual, or organization in their district. After further review and evaluation, the Caucus presented a congressional award and honored nine individuals at the United States Capitol.
“Growing up in a monolingual Spanish speaking family who was often fearful of seeking help, I was determined to create a space where all could feel safe and heard. With a dedicated team at Centro La Familia, we strive daily to empower survivors, particularly those from underserved communities, from a culturally sensitive lens. We are guided by the principle: ‘we are who we serve,’ advocating for those silenced by fear and unawareness of their rights. I am deeply honored by this recognition from Congressman Costa,” Margarita said.
Margarita Rocha was nominated by Congressman Jim Costa and awarded the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation. She serves as Executive Director for Centro La Familia Advocacy Services, a local agency uplifting victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other serious crimes throughout Fresno County. Centro La Familia holds innovative “platicas” or conversations to empower residents to become advocates on behalf of victims and their community.
With more than 40 years of social service experience, Margarita has achieved a distinguished career in federal and nonprofit service. Her work has taken her to Washington D.C. and Cleveland, Ohio, where she worked in the newly established Office for Civil Rights with the Department of Health, Education and Welfare.
In honor of former California Judge, Lois Haight, the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation honors outstanding professionals who have made a significant impact at the local, state, national and international levels regarding the dignity, rights, and services of crime victims.
To view the livestream of the ceremony, click HERE.
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The Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus is co-chaired by Representatives Jim Costa and Anthony D’Esposito. Since its establishment, the Caucus has initiated efforts to protect federal funds for the Crime Victim’s Fund, Children’s Advocacy Centers and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
