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Read this touching story from Domestic Violence Resource Center of Alexander County
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Her first encounter with DVRC staff occurred during the court process as she gained an order of protection.  She, like so many women, assumed that the abuse would stop if she returned to her husband.  His promises of change convinced her to try to make the marriage work.  She dismissed the order and returned to him.  Two months later, she and her children entered shelter.  The physical and emotional abuse had not ended, and had only escalated when he discovered that she had been making plans to leave.  Shelter provided a safe environment for her to establish goals and develop a plan of action. She was granted her second protective order at this time. She maintained her employment, arranged childcare, and actively began searching for independent housing options.  She had contact with her husband through family and friends and believed his promise to stay away. Feeling that the family home would best meet their housing needs, she and her children immediately left shelter.  He, of course, stayed away only a few days.

The Department of Social Services became involved with the family due to the violence that the children had witnessed.  Upon discovery that the children were in a volatile situation, the Department of Social Services temporarily removed the children and placed them in a safer environment.  She was distraught at the thought of losing her children and sought supportive peer counseling at DVRC.  Working with Social Services and the DVRC, she began to realize the effects that domestic violence has, not only on the victim, but also the children who witness the abuse.  She found alternative housing near her work, and continued utilizing support group and parenting classes to regain custody of her children.  Household furnishings, provided by the DVRC, aided in the transition to independent housing.  She struggled with not having her children with her, but used the time to make the new home a place that her children would like.  After a period of time, her children returned to live with her.

She continues to balance a career and being custodial parent of her children.  The services provided by the DVRC did not eliminate the problems that she faced, but aided her in making positive choices that have already made an impact on the family.  

The Domestic Violence Resource Center Provides:

• Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis
  Peer Counseling Court Advocacy
• DV and Rape and Sexual Assault Support Group with child care
• Safe Shelter
• Elder Support Program
• Volunteer and Intern Opportunities
• Website: dvrcalexander.org
• Quarterly newletter which is also available on our website
• Support our Students and Community Education programs