January 7, 2025
Kelly found herself in a difficult and unsafe situation. Desperate, she called Rainbow’s hotline looking for help, hope, and safety. Kelly disclosed that she and her two children were living in their car to escape from the intense physical abuse they were suffering at home. Kelly and her two children entered Rainbow’s emergency shelter, Rainbow House, where they were welcomed by warm staff and provided with their own safe room and other essentials.
Kelly and Mario had been separated for five years, but still communicated with one another as they share two children together. Mario had come a long way over the last five years and Kelly started to believe that he had changed. After some persuading, she decided to give their relationship another try. Mario promised he had changed and expressed wanting to be a family again. Unfortunately, Mario’s harmful and hurtful ways returned shortly after Kelly moved in with him. She felt like she was living her worst nightmare again for a second time.
While at shelter, Kelly shared that she felt lost. With two children and now one on the way, she did not know how she was going to be able to take care of a family of four on her own. She felt ashamed and helpless. With the support of staff, Kelly began to make progress towards building her self-esteem and developed goals to improve her financial situation. Kelly felt some of her former happiness and hope return and was now determined to make positive changes to improve her life and the lives of her children.
One of the goals Kelly set for herself was securing a new job; however, her car was not reliable and in dire need of repairs. Fearful that this would hinder her ability to secure and maintain a steady job, Rainbow stepped in and covered the cost of her car repairs. Shortly after, Kelly was offered a job! She was just thrilled and felt such a sense of pride and accomplishment. During her stay at shelter, Kelly and her children benefitted from many of the free, confidential services offered, such as counseling, support groups, case management, and legal support.
Thanks to Rainbow’s Community Housing team, Kelly is now preparing to move into her own place. With a new job and outlook on life, she and her children are excited for the future. Kelly shared that she is so thankful for everything Rainbow did to help her and her children.
