Angela's life was marked by daily struggles and fear under the control of an abusive partner. He isolated her from family and friends, forbade her from working, and subjected her to ongoing physical and emotional abuse. She felt trapped and terrified, unsure if she could ever break free or survive on her own without his financial support.
One night, her abuser strangled her to the point of unconsciousness, threatening to kill her if she tried to leave again. As he fell asleep, Angela made a life-altering decision--she wanted peace, safety, and freedom from the abuse.
The following morning, after he left for work, Angela took a courageous step and found her way to Safe Alliance's Victim Assistance Court Program. There, she was met by a compassionate advocate who helped her file for a Domestic Violence Protective Order and supported her through every step of the process. For the first time, Angela felt empowered, surrounded by allies, and hopeful as she began to take control of her future.
In imminent danger and without a safe place to go, Angela turned to the Clyde and Ethel Dickson Domestic Violence Shelter at Safe Alliance, which became her sanctuary. For 90 days, Angela and other survivors found a secure, supportive space where they could rest, recover, and begin to rebuild their lives.
The path to healing was far from easy. Years of trauma had left Angela with deep emotional wounds, but Safe Alliance's Sexual Trauma Resource Center offered her the therapeutic support she needed. She joined a Mindfulness Support Group, connected with other survivors who truly understood her experiences, and participated in trauma therapy that helped her process painful memories and regain her sense of stability. For the first time in years, Angela felt an emotional peace taking root, along with a renewed sense of self-worth and control over her life.
A Pathway of Peace and Ongoing Support
Angela's journey continued, and there were still moments when she needed guidance or reassurance. The Greater Charlotte Hope Line, a 24/7 support line staffed by trained advocates, was a constant source of support. She knew she could call anytime--for safety planning, advice, or simply a compassionate ear. Even her sister reached out to the Hope Line to understand how best to support Angela. Knowing there was always someone ready to listen provided Angela with a profound sense of peace.
Each Safe Alliance program played a vital role in Angela's journey, offering her the pathway to the compassion, support, and empowerment she needed to reclaim her life. Through the shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and educational resources, Angela found the courage to envision a future of her own making--one filled with hope, healing, and the freedom she had longed for.
Today, Angela looks forward to a peaceful future, grounded in strength and renewed with a sense of purpose. Safe Alliance made that future possible, and Angela's story is a testament to the transformative power of support, resilience, and the pathway to peace.
This holiday season, we invite you to support Safe Alliance and help survivors like Angela find the peace and protection they deserve. Your kindness can be the gift that changes a life.
