David’s story taught me what it means to be trauma-informed and sparked a question that has been in the forefront of my mind as a counselor and advocate ever since: not the question “What is wrong with you?” but “What has happened to you?”
Would you believe me if I told you that I was the victim of psychological domestic abuse for five years and didn’t realize, or escape the abuse, until it became physical?
“Mom, I have something to tell you and I need your help”.
The voices of many have been silenced and left out, and these stories of resilience are important now more than ever; in moving closer to a culture where everyone feels safe and valued, and to helping others recognize that they are not alone.
Lawmakers in Columbia are are considering the elimination of essential funding for domestic violence service programs like Safe Harbor from the S.C. state budget.
We don’t have to agree on every issue, but we can all agree on one thing: saving $1.48 per year in taxes (the annual cost of VAWA funds for each American taxpayer) is not worth thousands of our sisters’ and daughters’ lives.
The Violence Against Women Act costs each American taxpayer a total of $1.48 per year – less than a single cup of coffee.
However, Safe Harbor’s mission, vision, principles and dedication to service has not and will not change.
“I didn’t know that I was being abused because my definition of abuse looked different. My husband pushed me, but most of my suffering was verbal and psychological. I left my husband to protect our young daughter. Almost immediately I felt the weight of his oppression begin to lift. I could see a difference in my daughter as well. Then he broke into my home and assaulted me in-front of her.
I sought help and was led to Safe Harbor. My daughter and I are in counseling now. I am sorting out the mess that abuse has caused. I am finding my voice and seeking opportunities to grow and better my life as well as my daughter's. She will gauge her self-worth from my own self-worth. I must show her that she deserves the best, by expecting the best for myself.
Many years I suffered in silence. By telling my story and being honest with friends and family, I am taking control of my life again.”
MAKE A GIFTWhen you give to Safe Harbor, 82 cents of every dollar goes directly to our intervention services and prevention initiatives to break the cycle of domestic violence in the Upstate of South Carolina. |
BOOK A SPEAKERWe are available to provide domestic violence education and information about Safe Harbor’s services through speaking engagements, trainings, workshops and awareness campaigns. |
SUPPORT OUR SHOPSafe Harbor Resale Shop operates solely on donations from our generous community. Donations are tax deductible and make a difference in the lives of our clients. |
DONATE FURNITUREYour donated furniture can support our clients as they transition out of our programs and start a new life, and can also raise money for Safe Harbor by going to our Resale Shop to be re-sold. |
429 N. Main St., Suite 1
Greenville, SC 29601
PO Box 174
Greenville, SC 29602
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