Goals Prevent domestic violence. Aid victims of abuse by providing supportive services and programs designed to break the cycle of violence Reduce the effects of domestic violence through education and advocacy. Provide intervention and referral services. Provide shelter for battered women and their children. Developments In 1991, NISWA opened a "helpline" to provide counseling support and resource referrals. Countless calls are made to the helpline daily. In addition, NISWA established a shelter for Muslim battered women in 1996. Since then, the shelter has housed many women and their children, providing them with counseling, and job placement. Through active cooperation with state and county agencies, NISWA has gained recognition and respect within the mental health and social welfare fields. NISWA's shelter specifically serves victims of physical, emotional, and mental abuse. The shelter is not a drug or alcohol recovery center. Referrals and resources are provided for all individuals Click on Articles for more information .