Survivor Stories
“It had been years since my husband had let me work, and I had no real savings of my own. When my kids and I came to SafeHaven’s shelter I was terrified about what our next step would be, but SafeHaven’s transitional housing program was the best thing that ever happened to my family. Because of their help I was able to find a job and start saving money for our future. They even supported me in my goal of sobriety. I’ve now been sober for two years and am living free from the abuse I experienced for so long. My kids and I are the happiest we’ve ever been.”
– Leigh, 39
“My son Blake and I came to shelter in the middle of the night with nothing more than our pajamas and a coat. It was a hard adjustment for Blake—he was really shy and nervous. A few weeks into our stay I found a letter to Santa in his backpack. He asked if Santa would still come see him, and at the end he asked for a very good dad. It broke my heart that my son was feeling this way, but I knew we were taking the right steps to a better future. There was an outpouring of support for my son and me, and SafeHaven helped us find an apartment and pay rent. SafeHaven helped with counseling, and they even helped me start saving. But I think the most important thing I learned is what a healthy relationship looked like. I feel better knowing that if I start dating again, I can look for red flags and know what will work best for my family.”
– Shayla, 29
“I came to SafeHaven when I was six months pregnant because my boyfriend strangled me in front of my other two kids. My case manager helped me feel safe and found healthcare services I could afford. Their lawyers helped me get a protective order from my boyfriend to make sure my kids and I were safe.”
-Lynne, 23
“After I left shelter I was moved to SafeHaven’s transitional housing program, and they helped me find and pay for an apartment. I started a certification program and was able to find a job I could start after my baby was born. I feel safe and secure, and I’m happy knowing that my kids have a comfortable place to call home. That’s all I could ever ask for.”
– Mary, 34
“My sister and I have the same birthday month, and because she’s younger and my dad’s favorite, she got all the gifts every year. Today at SafeHaven was the first time I got all my own gifts and a cake. I got to invite all my friends in the shelter to my party. Nobody forgot about me today.”
– Victoria, 14