There were 125 deaths in Arizona related to domestic violence in 2014. Statistics tell us that one in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. These tragedies hit too close to home.
Not all domestic violence ends in death, some women have the courage and opportunity to break away from their abuser and start a new life.
Domestic Violence Shelter
“Dana” and her two young sons found refuge at My Sisters’ Place, a confidential domestic violence shelter run by Catholic Charities in the East Valley of Phoenix. For six years, Dana’s abusive boyfriend treated her like a prisoner and used her children as leverage to keep her compliant. Her abuse was extensive and involved threats to both her life and that of her children.
One day, there was a small window of opportunity to escape. Dana took her boys but had to leave everything they owned to flee.
Survivor
When Dana arrived at My Sisters’ Place, she had no self-esteem. She walked slumped over hoping no one would notice her. Her boys acted like her abuser and did not respect her.
Dana stayed at My Sisters’ Place for four months, during that time she and her children embraced their case management and counseling services. In time, she reclaimed her self-esteem. She was also able to secure new, safe housing and a job. Her sons, who had once been out of control, now complied with her instructions and behaved in a loving, joyful way.
The most difficult part of moving on was saying goodbye to staff at My Sisters’ Place, who had become Dana’s new family. Now, Dana is independent and living a life without fear of violence.
My Sisters’ Place
For 30 years, women who have come to My Sisters’ Place receive services to help them work toward an independent life—free from abuse. In addition to safety planning, women are given resources that empower them to advocate for themselves and make permanent changes. There is also a dedicated childhood case worker to provide therapeutic services to children.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse please call one of our help hotlines. If you would like to become a partner in helping these women flee violence, please consider becoming a monthly donor or giving a one-time gift today. Your gift will go a long way to help domestic violence survivors get a fresh start.
