Crisis House October Newsletter

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, shedding light on a pressing issue, particularly in California. Shocking statistics reveal that one in six Californians have experienced physical or sexual violence in the past year, with one in 25 facing intimate partner violence. This problem intensified during the pandemic, especially for men.

Domestic violence involves a pattern of power and control, including physical assault, sexual assault, threats, and emotional abuse by one intimate partner against another. The severity and frequency can vary significantly.

In California, approximately 34.9% of women and 31.1% of men experience intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.

With over 50 years of experience, Crisis House is committed to supporting domestic violence survivors by providing housing, counseling, case management, and other critical services necessary to support brave individuals fleeing traumatic situations.

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month is observed, Crisis House is committed to raising awareness, offering support, and working towards creating a safer and more compassionate community.

Your support and understanding play a vital role in ending domestic violence.

In the world of social service and community support, partnerships are often the cornerstone of success. Crisis House has been fortunate to share an extraordinary partnership with the Soroptimist International of Poway & North County San Diego for nearly two decades. This alliance, facilitated by Crisis House Board Members Judy Horning and Pam Warnock (seen above), supports Crisis House clients in rebuilding their lives after escaping domestic violence. Soroptimists provide funds for rent, furnish apartments, and offer crucial one-on-one mentorship, helping clients regain control of their lives and self-worth.

Soroptimists generously donate both time and resources, ensuring all client needs are met, including furniture and groceries.

Judy and Pam have personally dedicated over 20 years to this noble cause, and their organization's support continues even after clients transition to permanent housing.

This enduring partnership proves the power of compassion, dedication, and commitment to a shared vision of hope, healing, and empowerment in a world where collaboration and community support are vital.

Together, we are changing lives and strengthening communities.

While the image above may appear as a simple living room couch to some, for our clients, it symbolizes hope, safety, and the promise of new beginnings.

At the heart of Crisis House, stories of resilience emerge as powerful testaments to the strength of the human spirit.

For 15 years, our client, whose identity will remain confidential, endured an emotionally, financially, and physically abusive marriage. For many years, her life was a relentless struggle, teetering on the brink of homelessness if she chose to leave her abusive relationship while also trying to protect her son. Hope seemed distant until she found Crisis House.

Our emergency hotel program provided a lifeline, freeing her from homelessness and abuse. A year-long opportunity in our transitional housing offered her more than shelter; it gave her comprehensive case management and support with our incredible team member, Suzie, employment assistance, and her son has thrived in our Camp HOPE program.

The Crisis House Domestic Violence Journey program was her launchpad to self-sufficiency. With newfound determination, she set goals, including completing her social work degree and securing part-time employment to help other people in her previous situation. Her journey, from despair to hope, is a reminder that healing is not always linear.

We're honored to be part of her story and are confident in her continued success. Her journey reaffirms Crisis House's mission as a source of hope, support, and renewal for those in need in San Diego County.

Our staff celebrated Halloween a little early this year in honor of our dear friend and Halloween-loving colleague, LaSheila Williams. LaSheila has been an invaluable member of the Crisis House family for over two decades. Her commitment, dedication, and passion have touched countless lives and has helped to make our

mission a reality.

As LaSheila embarks on a new chapter of her journey, we want to express our deepest gratitude for her remarkable service. Your dedication has been a source of inspiration for us all. LaSheila, we wish you nothing but success and happiness on this next adventure! You'll be greatly missed, but your legacy will forever be a part of our story.

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