Gina had lived in an abusive relationship for 3 years, which with her pregnancy and birth of their son, was now escalating. Her husband was verbally, emotionally, financially and physically abusive to her. During the last incident when she tried to call family for help, he took her cell phone away and told her he would kill her if she tried to leave. Gina decided the only way to be safe this time was to enter a shelter and she contacted our 24-hour Crisis Hotline for help. Gina and her 3 month old son entered Laura’s House in January 2013.
During their 44 day length of stay, Gina actively participated in the structured program. She received individual counseling, parenting classes, psycho-educational groups, PEP Classes, and Life Skills. Through weekly case management, Gina was able to establish plans and goals during and after her stay at the program. She was linked with resources to meet some dental needs, the one-stop agency to secure employment and additional skills, and victims of crime assistance program. Through our legal advocacy program, Gina was provided with information on her legal rights and obtaining a restraining order and linked with an attorney to meet her additional legal needs.
For Gina and her son, they were able to secure permanent housing with the help of family. Now that they are living free of domestic violence, Gina has plans to move forward with securing employment and providing a safe home life for her and her son.