Support survivors escaping domestic violence

“I find peace here. When I’m stressed and worried and I just need someone to talk to, I come to Raphael House, and I know it’s a safe place to relax.”  – Amanda, mom and survivor of violence

Dear Friends,

At this time of year, peace can feel like it’s in short supply. We’re all rushing around, trying to cram in as many joys of the season as possible, while hoping not to be overwhelmed by the stresses of travel, family, finances, and more. 

It’s difficult to even think about how much harder the holidays are for a family experiencing domestic violence. The families who live at Raphael House will celebrate in an unfamilar space, full of unfamiliar cultures and personalities. They will celebrate without the pets and friends and family members they left behind. They will celebrate while processing trauma and learning to support themselves.

And yet, like the rest of us, the moms at Raphael House will find a way to put aside their stress and worry. They’ll decorate the shelter. They’ll bake cookies. They’ll read bedtime stories and share traditions and make new friends. And we will do whatever we can to support them in that.

Raphael House used to be located in a large old home in NW Portland. Amanda lived in that shelter. Fifteen years ago, she called Raphael House and asked for help. She was in an abusive relationship and she didn’t have a job or financial resources or anywhere safe to go. She and her kids moved into our shelter, stayed for several weeks, and then joined our transitional housing program, which helped them move into their own apartment.

Working with our staff, Amanda went to school, got a job, and made a peaceful home for herself and her children. Today, more than a decade later, she still comes to visit Raphael House when she needs a safe space to talk – when she needs advice – when she just needs someone who will listen.

She finds peace here. As you celebrate the holidays, as you gather with family and friends, I hope you find a peaceful moment of your own to think about Amanda and all the families who are celebrating at Raphael House this year. Please, give generously. No gift is too small to make a difference. Together, we can offer peace to hundreds of families in need.

Links:

• http://www.raphaelhouse.com