Jennifer’s Story

I was trapped in a cycle of abuse. My breaking point came when my husband pulled a knife on me.

I silently suffered from the abuse of my husband for six years. We had three kids: Daniel (5), Marcus (4), and Isabelle (2). I didn’t know how to make things better. It was difficult to see my kids struggling with our family being torn apart. I struggled with my sense of worth.

Eventually, I separated from my husband and got a restraining order. He later convinced me to remove the restraining order and he moved back in.

That same night, we got into an argument and he pulled a knife on me. This was my breaking point. I knew I needed to leave and protect my children, but I had nowhere to go.

After separating again and getting another restraining order, I was referred to Friendly Center. This is where things changed for me. I met with one of their Family Support Advocates who made me feel welcome and safe. She helped me develop a plan to move forward.

We found an apartment for my children and me. Since the apartment wouldn’t be ready for a few days, Friendly Center provided motel vouchers so my kids and I would have a place to stay. After the move, Friendly Center got beds for the kids and a dining table.

I started counseling at Friendly Center and joined their support group for victims of domestic violence. I slowly began to rebuild my confidence and became a better mother because of it. I’ve now taken Parenting Classes and Financial Literacy Classes at Friendly Center, strengthening me as a single parent. I also continue to receive support with regular groceries and diapers.

It hurts to know how much my boys witnessed, but I have to remind myself of where we are today. Friendly Center offered us a lifeline.

Through Friendly Center, I found the strength to break free, to rebuild my life, and to rediscover my worth. I’m forever grateful and don’t know where we would be today without them.

Jennifer and her children’s lives were changed thanks to supporters like you. As Friendly Center enters its 100th year of service in 2024, we invite you to give now more than ever for the next family in need. Click here to give today.