For survivors of domestic violence, leaving an abusive situation is only the beginning. True healing requires safety, stability, and access to compassionate support. Shelters like My Sisters’ Place are critical lifelines for survivors seeking safety and a path forward.
For Jennifer and her son Sam, that journey began in a hotel room with nowhere else to turn. Jennifer survived years of abuse in a long-term marriage.
The final breaking point came when her husband acted violently toward Sam, who has autism. After the attack, Sam was overwhelmed by fear, experiencing nightmares, panic attacks, and night terrors.
Instead of taking responsibility, Jennifer’s husband fled the state, abandoning her and Sam in Arizona without family, financial support, or a safe place to go. He later left the country entirely, making the divorce process even more complicated and frightening.
Reaching Out for Domestic Violence Support in Phoenix
Terrified and alone, Jennifer reached out to Pathways, a Phoenix-based Catholic Charities program that supports survivors of domestic violence through counseling, advocacy, and case management.
That moment marked the start of healing. Pathways staff immediately walked alongside Jennifer, helping her secure a protective order and begin the legal steps toward divorce.
They also assisted her in enrolling in AHCCCS, Arizona’s state health care program, giving them access to essential medical and mental health services. Through Pathways, Jennifer and Sam began trauma-informed therapy to address the emotional wounds caused by abuse, fear, and abandonment.
Finding Refuge at My Sisters’ Place
Jennifer and Sam soon entered My Sisters’ Place, a safe and confidential domestic violence shelter. My Sisters’ Place is one of only two domestic violence shelters in the East Valley. All services are provided at no cost, ensuring survivors can focus on healing without financial barriers.
During their stay, case managers worked closely with Jennifer to ensure Sam could continue attending the Autism Institute, a specialized school that provides routine and consistency. Staff coordinated transportation so his daily schedule remained intact. Routine is incredibly important and helpful to children with autism, particularly those recovering from trauma.
Rebuilding a Life After Abuse
While at My Sisters’ Place, Jennifer committed herself fully to rebuilding her life. She attended domestic violence support groups twice a week, participated in job readiness and budgeting workshops, and worked closely with counselors and case managers. She was proactive throughout the process, conducting her own research and following every opportunity to secure a safer future for her family.
As Jennifer prepared for independence, My Sisters’ Place and partner agencies provided housing assistance, clothing, beds, and essential household items. These resources helped ensure that when she and Sam transitioned into permanent housing, they could do so with dignity.
After nearly five months at the shelter, Jennifer and Sam moved into a place of their own. Catholic Charities provided not only a safe place to stay, but guidance through trauma and toward a path of healing. Jennifer no longer lives in fear, instead embracing each new day with joy and optimism.
