Support survivors escaping domestic violence

“I was in an abusive relationship and that's not what I intended for my life or my children's lives. I decided I'm going to leave – I want out. But I have two small kids. I had to be smart – lots of women get really hurt if they leave in a way that’s not planned. 

I got connected with Raphael House through my health care originally, a domestic violence advocate at my clinic (OHSU). She was the best person I could’ve ever hoped to help me get out of a situation like that.”

Whether through our 24-hour hotline or community advocates, Raphael House is always there for survivors. 

"When we first came to shelter, I was in survivor mode, like fight or flight. And then we got settled in our room, and we made it our own. That’s very healing, very therapeutic, to have a little space in this world to get yourself together. 

I was at Raphael House for one month before a new participant came in, and we just kind of found comfort in each other. Our relationship kept growing – I'd watch her kids, she'd watch my kids, and then we decided, ‘Hey, we're family now.’

We really connected and that’s completely changed my life for the better. I’m not alone anymore and that’s a really great feeling."

The first step in many families' journey to safety is staying in our shelter and receiving personalized support from our advocates, while building community with other survivors. 

"What keeps me connected to Raphael House is that I have a place here forever.

I have many memories here. My son started walking here. I met my best friend here. My advocates are still here. They welcome me back with open arms every time... Everybody really cares, and it's nice to know that that care wasn't just in the six months that I needed help in shelter. It's going to be for as long as I want it."

We proudly help families like Katy's get into safe and stable homes, and then stay connected to support for as long as they need. 

"My life now is a million times better than when I started a year and a half ago.

I have moved out of shelter and got my own place. I'm the first woman in my whole family to have a place in her own name. I work full time and I am free!

Raphael House has helped me every step of the way."