By Maneashia Hill-Charlton & Toni Netters | Case Manager & Program Manager
At Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women Inc. (FSWW), community is more than a network of supporters, it is a circle of care that surrounds women survivors of domestic violence with dignity, compassion, and hope. During this quarter, our staff, volunteers, donors, and partners came together in powerful ways to ensure that women in crisis were not only supported, but reminded that they are valued and deserving of restoration. Through collaborative effort and shared purpose, Fresh Spirit created safe spaces where survivors could begin to feel whole again, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
A Celebration of Dignity: Pre-Mother’s Day Pop-Up Boutique
One of the most impactful moments this quarter was FSWW’s Pre-Mother’s Day Pop-Up Boutique for Survivors. This special, invitation-only experience was designed to celebrate women as honored guests more than just recipients of charity. Survivors were welcomed into a boutique-style setting where they could shop free of charge for new and gently worn clothing, stylish shoes, and beautiful accessories. With designer apparel for work/interviews, church, After 5, and leisure wear, the ladies found an array of items fit for a queen’s closet. The designer shoe collection paralleled with the couture looks they were able to mix-match to fill their shopping bags. Bold and elegant accessories accented and completed their chic persona boosting the self-esteem of all attendees,
By inviting participants to share their sizes in advance, we ensured a personalized and affirming experience that centered around comfort, choice, and self-expression for everyone. This event was more than a distribution of items; it was a celebration of identity and resilience. Women left feeling seen, confident, and appreciated, stepping into Mother’s Day renewed and uplifted.
Worthy Alliance:
Continuing to forge partnerships in the community, FSWW has garnered a worthy alliance with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office (HCDAO). Acknowledging FSWW’s steadfast efforts and unwavering commitment to the cause of empowering, equipping and educating survivors of domestic violence, DA Sean Teare and Assistant DA Mary McFadden, presented Dr. Conte Terrell & Team FSWW with a grant for $25,000. Known for our daily “boots on the ground,” and witnessing the dire need for social services of every kind, FSWW was ecstatic to receive the much needed financial support which greatly assisted the organization in continuing to offer its free domestic violence counseling, case management, legal advocacy and support groups.
KPRC Channel 2 News Interview:
Revered as one of the nation's most sought-after family violence and healthy relationships expert, Dr. Conte Terrell is often called upon by the local media platforms via TV, radio, podcast as well as churches, conferences, training etc.., to give professional insight into the world of domestic violence. Her expertise spans from her personal testimony to the academic excellence she completed to equip herself to assist and save the lives of others.
Recently, she was requested by Houston’s KPRC Channel 2 to offer life-saving tips to those family members, friends and neighbors who may be dealing with a DV situation during the Memorial Holiday and any other holiday. She discussed the red-flags often overlooked or disregarded by the loved ones of a DV Victim. Safety is the principle goal with the immediate action of calling 911for emergency assistance should you find yourself as a witness or in a DV situation. Once safety is established, one should seek help from a DV agency to help them transition fully out of the dangerous situation.
Dr. Conte Terrell’s quote:
“Prevention starts before violence happens. Healthy communication, emotional discipline, accountability, and safety awareness can literally save lives this holiday weekend.
My message this Memorial Day weekend is simple: Celebrate responsibly. Protect your peace. Trust your instincts. Never ignore the warning signs of violence.”
Arunah’s Story
Across cultural lines, DV/SA/FV/IPV is persistent and consistent. Invasive and life-claiming for decades, centuries even, many nameless victims have been robbed of the fruitful life intended for them. Arunah’s story is one that was not allowed to remain hidden. FSWW CEO/Executive Director, Dr. Conte Terrell was invited to attend and witness a brilliant solo performance by world renowned Indian Stage Actor and Director, Lushin Dubey, scripted for stage and directed by Arvind Gaur. Inspired by Pinki Virani’s book,Arunah’s Story tells the tragic tale of Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse at KEM Hospital in Mumbai, who was brutally assaulted and left in a vegetative state until her passing some 42 years later. The layered story depicts the elements of resilience, compassion of her caregivers and the legal battle surrounding her care. Dr. Terrell was called upon as an impromptu panelist to discuss the dynamics of the disease of DV that is pervasive in today’s time.
Quarterly Impact Snapshot
During the 2nd quarter, Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women (FSWW) provided trauma-informed, holistic services to 174 unique survivors through 1,527 hours of service. Services included extensive case management via emergency financial assistance, food and clothing support, emergency hotel accommodations, housing assistance, transportation, and household necessities. FSWW also provided legal advocacy and court accompaniment to help survivors navigate legal challenges and strengthen their path toward safety and stability.
Demand for emotional wellness services remained strong throughout the quarter. FSWW provided 777 hours of counseling and therapy services to 101 survivors, while also connecting clients to psychiatric and medication management resources to support their overall mental health and well-being. In addition, FSWW facilitated 12 support group sessions that engaged 118 participants, creating safe spaces for healing, encouragement, and peer support.
Moving Forward Together
This quarter demonstrated the power of community-driven impact. When donors, volunteers, and advocates unite around a shared mission, transformation happens. Through practical assistance, celebratory experiences, and trauma-informed care, Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women continues to help survivors reclaim their confidence, rebuild stability, and rediscover their sense of wholeness. We remain committed to walking alongside every woman we serve ensuring she knows she is not alone, she is worthy, and she has a community standing beside her as she moves forward.
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By Maneashia Hill-Charlton & Toni Netters | Case Manager & Program Manager
By Tonya "Toni" Netters | Program Manager
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