Support survivors escaping domestic violence

Spring is a beautiful time of year at Raphael House! Our garden’s flowers and fruit trees are in bloom, which inspires us to reflect on the growth of the people we serve. As you might imagine, we witness a lot of hardship, but we also get to see a lot of positive transformation and shared support among our residents.

When Camila arrived here from out of state, she was nearly nine months pregnant with her first child and had no family or friends to support her. Like many survivors, past experiences made her guarded around our staff and other residents, and Camila was reluctant to connect.

Another resident, Phoebe, had been in our shelter with her children for a couple of months, and had recently lost a pregnancy. Though finances were extremely tight, she had been saving for her baby’s arrival. Phoebe was moved by Camila’s pending birth and purchased baby gifts such as bottles, diapers, and infant blankets for her.

Camila lit up after this act of kindness and something in her changed. She opened up to our staff and other residents and eagerly accessed the resources that Raphael House offered her growing family. Phoebe was transformed by her own generosity as well, and said it helped her move through her loss.

Today, Camila has a healthy baby and they live in their very own apartment, safe from her abuser, and are active participants in our Housing Program. Phoebe and her family have also found safety, and continue to return to Raphael House for ongoing programming like support groups and family activities.

Your support of Raphael House gives children and adults escaping domestic violence a safe place to heal and transform. Thank you for your generosity.

Links:

• Save the Date for Restaurants for Raphael House on May 18th