The word of God tells us in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

LOVE SHOULD’NT HURT! Yet the majority of women who come to the Mission have experienced domestic violence at some point in their life. Domestic violence does not discriminate. It does not discriminate based on age, sex, race, or economic status. It can be your neighbor or friend.

1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men aged 18 and older in the US have been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. 30-60% of intimate partner violence perpetrators also abuse children in the household. And the third leading cause of homelessness among families is domestic violence.

This abuse causes physical, spiritual and emotional scars. The trauma endured through domestic violence leads to PTSD, low self-esteem, shame, hopelessness, and more.

But there is healing through the power of Jesus Christ who gives a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair (Isaiah 61:3).

The Mission is a safe haven for those fleeing domestic violence. Survivors receive immediate assistance and support from our loving staff, many who have also survived domestic violence. But most importantly a safe place to find rest and restoration.

One shining example of God’s healing through the scars of domestic violence is Joann. Joann came to the Mission carrying years of hurt and abuse but she made the decision to give it all to Jesus and her life has been completely changed. She graduated our New Beginnings Program, secured a job at Harmony House, and with the help of her supervisors was able to become a licensed CNA. Today, she has her own home and is thriving!