CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A Chesterfield nonprofit is working to help Latino survivors of domestic violence. Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center, located on Hull Street Road in Chesterfield, is the first and only culturally specific domestic and sexual violence program to serve the enti re Commonwealth of Virginia. Officials say up to 50% of Latinos experiencing partner violence don't get help because of language and cultural barriers. "It can be a scary experience navigating the system," Elvira De la Cruz, nonprofit CEO, told 8News. (8News)(8News) De la Cruz says the organization offers a variety of services including mental health services, case managers, support groups and a 24/7 hotline with trained advocates. All services are free and confidential. "Usually takes seven times in an average for a person to leave a domestic violence relationship, and we are going to be here for seven times or for 10 times or whatever it takes," she explained. It was the case for Gladys Garcia, who found herself in an abusive relationship. "I was afraid of him," Garcia explained. "I didn't feel like I had any value as a person. It was very difficult for me because I didn't have anybody to talk to outside." Then, she got in touch with De la Cruz, who says seeing people celebrate their wins is her why. "You see them get hope, you see them change, and you celebrate with them — each of their successes," De la Cruz said. Garcia is now turning her paint into purpose and helping other survivors who are filing taxes for the first time navigate tax law. She's urging others to get help. "I keep telling people there is hope," Garcia said. "It might be a long journey. It might be a short one for some people, but there is hope. And I found that hope here in Latino in Virginia." Resources are available on the Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center website. The organization's 24/7 statewide English/Spanish crisis support line can be called at 888-969-1825. ...read more read less