DV Survivor Stories
One client spoke about the issue of domestic violence getting worse, what used to be a slap across the face is now a punch in the face. With no job, no affordable housing and a possible 45 day wait for approval of financial assistance from the county, leaving is not an option regardless of how serious the violence. This client was hopeless, beat down and severely depressed. She had no transportation and also has 3 children, ages 5, 12 and 15. She came into the shelter with her children. Her 5 year old son wet his pants, day and night. Along with this was also throwing up every day. Her 15 year old had taken on the role as the "mom", desperately trying to keep everyone quiet out of fear, her 12 year was the "lost child," lingering in the middle, not wanting to take a stand on anything. It has been 2 months since their entry. Her son no longer wets his pants or throws up, mom has taken back the role of parent, and is learning how to take care of herself so she can take care of her children. The 15 year old is learning how to be a teenager, and not take on the responsibility of a parent. The 12 year old will now look you in the eye, smile, and is in the beginning stage of expressing her needs and feelings.
A client came to the emergency shelter with her 17 year old daughter. She had a life long history of substance abuse and domestic violence. Prior to entering the shelter, she tried to commit suicide. Her daughter found her and saved her life. This client has participated in daily peer counseling, weekly domestic violence support groups, drug and alcohol counseling. She emerged five months later, clean and sober, self accepting and a clear understanding of how to maintain a healthy relationship with herself and with a partner. She received a section 8 voucher and has a permanence home of her own for the first in ten years.
