Mother of Three Rebuilds

MVCAP’s Domestic Violence Services (DVS) team knows abuse is rarely limited to physical harm. At the same time, survivors still face the same life challenges many women and mothers face.

MVCAP’s program is designed to promote safety first along with supportive, trauma-informed case management and follow through to creation of new lifestyle habits and goals. Team members walk alongside survivors as they complete the hard work of building new lives.

Last summer, a mother of three experienced physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse as well as manipulation from other family members resulting in isolation. MVCAP’s team provided the shelter and support that allowed her to move forward.

During her shelter stay, she was approved for SNAP benefits, recertified Medicaid benefits, and was approved for WIC for her youngest child. She also received diapers from Birth Right and food assistance from The Common Good. MVCAP provided them with personal care and hygiene items, linens, and clothing.

The case manager also assisted in making sure the children’s schooling continued by working with the Preble County Success Team. Public schools are required to provide liaisons and support for families experiencing homelessness (living in a shelter of any kind meets the definition of homelessness for this purpose).
As the new school year approached, the family received assistance from Eaton First Church of God. The children received new clothes, shoes, backpacks, lunch boxes, and school supplies. Both mother and children were also referred for mental health counseling and early intervention services at Charlie Health and South Community.

Further stability came through the Ohio Domestic Violence Network’s REACH Rapid Rehousing program as the family moved into a three-bedroom home with a large, fenced backyard. The REACH program pays a portion of the rent and utilities for the first year. When she moved in, MVCAP also assisted her with applying for Winter Crisis and the Percentage of Income Payment Plan through MVCAP. The family faced the winter with a full propane tank and a renewed outlook on life.

MVCAP’s DVS team works with families for an average of three months after they’ve obtained permanent housing. This family is doing well and can connect with case management if needed.