Empowering Survivors Together
Project Sister Family Services is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to survivors of sexual assault and abuse in the East San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys. Through our survivor-centered approach, we aim to empower individuals, offer resources, and create a safe space for healing and growth.
Our Story
Empowering Communities
Project Sister Family Services (PSFS) was founded in 1972 in response to a series of violent assaults against women in the Claremont and Pomona areas. At that time, no local services existed to support survivors of sexual assault in Pomona and the East San Gabriel Valley.
A small group of compassionate women responded to this urgent need by creating a 24-hour hotline out of their homes. Their vision and determination led to the formation of a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending rape and supporting survivors, aptly named Project SISTER (Sisters in Service To End Rape).
Who We Are
At Project Sister Family Services (PSFS), we are dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault and child abuse while working to prevent future incidents through education and community outreach. Founded in 1972 by a group of compassionate women, PSFS began as a 24-hour hotline and has since grown into a vital organization serving more than 15,000 individuals annually across eastern Los Angeles and western San Bernardino Counties.
Our mission is rooted in compassion, empowerment, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported. We offer a wide range of services, including counseling, advocacy, prevention education, and crisis intervention, all delivered with a commitment to cultural sensitivity and accessibility.
What makes us unique is our unwavering focus on providing comprehensive, trauma-informed care to individuals and families, coupled with our partnerships with schools, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community groups. This site is your gateway to learning more about our services, accessing resources, and finding ways to support our mission.
Thank you for joining us in the journey to create safer communities and a world free from violence.
Our Team
Michelle Cates
Executive Director
Administrative
Gabriela de la Rosa
Director of Operations
Administrative
Andrea Torres
Hotline Specialist
Hotline Services
Kristine Casas
Hotline Specialist
Hotline Services
Elsie Miranda
Outreach Specialist
Outreach Services
Renee Patterson
Outreach Specialist
Outreach Services
Lauren Kane
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
AMFT #148747
Counseling Services
TaCoreya McSwain
Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker
ASW #134841
Counseling Services
Marissa Ochoa
Executive Assistant
Administrative
Madison Miles
Therapy Intern
Counseling Services
Cameryn Sandvik
Therapy Intern
Counseling Services
Lola Pinon
Therapy Intern
Counseling Services
Philomena Trask
Accountant
Administrative