The Struggle is Real

No really, it is. For victims and survivors of domestic violence coming into safe houses, the struggle is real, especially in rural areas. Our Union County safe house has been full to capacity lately. Not only do these clients have to deal with the severe trauma they’ve experienced, but they have to figure out how to support themselves and their children. Many of them were financially dependent on their abusive partners. This requires them to find a job, sometimes with no prior job experience. Or if they have a job, they may struggle to keep it, depending on new transportation and child care issues. On top of employment issues, they have to find housing since the stay in our safe house is only temporary. In a rural place, this is no easy task. Waiting lists are long, rents are expensive, and landlords are not always cooperative.

All of this while dealing with the effects of enduring trauma. Many are depressed, have low self-esteem or experience PTSD symptoms. This can prevent survivors from obtaining employment or take away motivation to seek jobs and/or housing. Of course, our staff is comprised of trained counselors and each guest is assigned a primary counselor to support them through their time with us. But the struggle is still real.

I’ve seen women find a job and housing in less than 30 days, but it is very rare. I’ve also seen women examine all their options and be left with nothing. At times, if they cannot find a place to go, they may contemplate or even decide to return to their abuser. This is extremely disheartening.

I am glad safe houses exist across the state – at least one to serve every county. I am glad this is something that is available for survivors to find safety. But I also recognize and have seen that paradise does not just happen once a survivor enters a safe house. It’s challenging, it’s tiring, and at times it seems hopeless.

  

But we also believe there is room for healing to happen here. There are counselors to talk to, safety to feel, and a new beginning in our safe house. So although the struggle is real, we strive to do what we can to lift that burden. As an AmeriCorps Volunteer in my second term, I am glad to have been a part of clients’ healing, journey, and new beginning. 

Written by Missy H., AmeriCorps