Tamika’s* journey to healing began with a single business card—one that a police officer handed her the night her abusive relationship escalated to unimaginable levels. “It really got beyond abusive, so much so that I had to get the police involved. They arrested him, and an officer gave me the information for DVSSP and suggested I reach out.”
That moment changed everything.
Through DVSSP, Tamika found the support she so desperately needed. “The counseling and therapy services have been monumental to rebuilding my self-esteem, my confidence.” She started with intensive therapy—three sessions a week—along with group support and master classes. Each session helped her rediscover her worth. “I learned so much about myself and my relationships, what to expect from others, and how to react when I don’t get what I expect.”
One of the most powerful lessons she learned? “It’s okay to say no. I deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. I don’t deserve the life I had before.”
For years, Tamika had been “beaten down, broken down, abused, and taken advantage of.” She had come to believe that this was just the life she was meant to live. But DVSSP helped her see the truth. “I was left not only physically beaten but emotionally, mentally, and financially robbed. I didn’t know what I was going to do.”
Beyond emotional healing, DVSSP provided critical financial assistance. “Without DVSSP, my son and I would have been on the streets. We wouldn’t have had power or heat. They helped us survive in our home and in so many other ways that I will be forever grateful.”
Now, Tamika is not just surviving—she is thriving. “I am a much healthier and happier person because of DVSSP. I’ve learned to set healthy boundaries. I’m learning how to maintain and establish healthy relationships—not just romantic ones, but friendships as well.”
Tamika’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. And it is made possible because of people like you. Planned giving ensures that DVSSP can continue providing life-saving services to survivors like Tamika—helping them rebuild, recover, and reclaim the futures they deserve.
“This is a wonderful program. I am so blessed and so grateful for everything it’s given me.”
*Name changed for privacy
