Domestic violence is a serious threat to its victims, and those who endure it experience long-term damaging physical and psychological effects. Children are particularly vulnerable. Witnessing violence in their home can lead to educational, social, and behavioral dysfunction. Domestic violence is not only prevalent (one in three women and one in four men experience it), it is also intergenerational, as abusive behaviors are often passed from parent to child.
For 25 years HomeSafe’s SafetyNet program has provided intensive therapeutic services, crisis intervention, and therapy to victims of domestic violence. We help survivors create safety plans, find resources to relocate, navigate the criminal justice system, and work through their trauma. Most importantly, our goal is to disrupt the cycle of violence.
A Mother and Son’s Journey
Anna* came to HomeSafe after more than a decade of abuse. Her partner was a very jealous man who controlled her teenage son Nelson’s and her every move. For years, he made his family relocate from one dirty, unsafe motel to another. Anna would try to make friends with neighbors, but when her partner sensed she was getting too attached, he would abruptly move the family.
As is the case with many abusers, he chronically isolated her from support systems and anyone who cared about her. His control reached a point where he forbade her son from attending school.
Amid the fear, trauma and hopelessness, Anna found the courage to contact HomeSafe’s SafetyNet team for help. She began secretly attending HomeSafe’s weekly therapeutic support groups with her son. After several sessions, with the support of her peers, Anna left her partner.
One day, the terrified mother and son arrived on HomeSafe’s doorstep with all of their belongings. HomeSafe helped Anna contact shelters until she could find a vacancy. When they found out that they would finally leave their abuser for good, the mother and son cried tears of relief. Anna and Nelson stayed at the AVDA shelter and then moved to an apartment with Section 8 housing assistance.
Today, Anna and her son are finding joy in rebuilding their lives. They still participate in HomeSafe support groups and have started individual therapy. Nelson is excited to have his own bedroom where he can play his guitar. His HomeSafe therapist works at a charter school and was able to get him to agree to return in-person. Previously shy and withdrawn, he has opened up and is thriving at his new school. Anna shares, “We finally feel free and safe, and we are starting a life that we never thought was possible.”
*Names changed to protect our families
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