Page 8 - 2019 Impact Report for flip book

For years, Anna and her children were victims of verbal and physical
abuse perpetrated by her husband James. He was controlling since
the beginning of their relationship and the abuse became physical
soon after they married.

During one of James’ violent attacks, Anna feared for her life
and called the police. When officers arrived she was skeptical
of what they could do for her. To her surprise, James was
arrested and the responding deputy took the time to tell her
about The Shelter and the services available at no cost.

At The Shelter, Anna and her children received group and
individual counseling. She learned that domestic violence
is a crime, not a life-sentence. The Shelter’s State Attorney’s
Office Advocate stood with her as she asked a judge to
increase James’ bail and accompanied her to court during
his trial. The Shelter’s staff attorney helped Anna secure
an injunction for protection and referred her for legal
assistance when she decided to move forward with
a divorce.

For the first time in many years, Anna began to feel
hope for her future and was able to think with greater
clarity. She learned the importance of self-love,
self-care and empowerment.

Thanks to The Shelter’s support services and
hard work, Anna and her children now have their
own home and are rebuilding their lives free of
domestic violence.

42 Average number of days of an emergency shelter stay in 2019

6