Stories of New Hope
Gaining Financial Independence
Luisa’s Journey to Safety and Stability
Early this year, a young
pregnant woman named Luisa called the Doorways Domestic Violence Hotline. Her boyfriend was often violent and had threatened
to kill her and her unborn baby. The call ended abruptly when he returned home from work early to check on Luisa. Fortunately, the Doorways hotline counselor had already created a safety
plan with Luisa. When Luisa called back two weeks later, her bags were packed, she was in a safe place, and ready to leave the violent situation.
Luisa adjusted quickly to her new living environment at the Safehouse, determined to make the most of her new opportunity, working closely with staff. Luisa requested and attended individual therapy and she also worked closely with a Doorways Financial Educator. Luisa completed her GED quickly so that she could search for employment and qualify for a housing program. She also met weekly with a Doorways volunteer for ESL services. In a very short period of time, Luisa’s English abilities and confidence progressed tremendously.
With the support of the Safehouse staff, Luisa embarked on a job search that proved arduous, given the isolation she experienced while in the abusive relationship. After many job applications, all of the hard work paid off when she accepted her first job as a nanny.
Luisa transitioned into the Doorways HomeStart Supportive Housing Program with a subsidized apartment and supportive case management. With the caring assistance of Doorways staff and volunteers, a new job, safe housing, and rapidly growing confidence, Luisa is finally in a position to preserve her safety and support herself and her newborn baby.
Out of respect for the privacy, safety and confidentiality of our clients, fictitious names and nuances have been used.
