What about the children?
We are often asked this question and, with
Christmas just days away, children are on everyone's mind. Robbie's
Room--our children's center--is dedicated to the memory of a two-year
old child who spent a portion of his short life calling Alternatives'
his home. Robbie was in shelter on several occasions. During his last
stay, he painted a picture, and signed his name with the help of his
teacher. Today, that painting hangs as a reminder not only of his
suffering, but the suffering of all children living in homes shattered
by domestic violence.
Alternatives sheltered 194 children at the emergency shelter this past fiscal year.
Children who witness domestic violence are at serious risk of personal
injury and often exhibit grave emotional effects. They lose the
ability to trust the violent parent to not hurt them. They lose the
ability to trust the abused parent to protect them. They learn that
violence is an accepted method of conflict resolution. They suffer
anxiety and depression. They exhibit low self esteem, poor impulse
control, and sleeping difficulties. They are at high risk for alcohol
and drug use, sexual acting out, and suicide. They exhibit low
performance in school and decreased problem-solving skills.
Our Children's Advocacy Program is designed specifically to be
responsive to those who have witnessed domestic violence. Objectives
focus on developing skills and abilities, teaching non-violent
behaviors, and building self-esteem. Our goal is to break the
intergenerational cycle of violence. Services are provided to children
by a team of specially trained staff including a Senior Children's Case
Manager, three Children's Case Managers, and three Child Advocates. In
addition, the program utilizes volunteers and students as program
assistants.
P.S. And... Yes, Santa does visit!
Through the generosity of many businesses and individuals, this
Christmas will be a wonderful celebration at their home--the shelter.
Being thankful
Special thanks to Pay It Forward for the wonderful Thanksgiving
feast! The meals were enjoyed by all. Thank you to all who support
our agency. Your generosity encourages us as we pour our hearts into
the hundreds of lives who pass through our doors each year. This past
month, 50 volunteers provided 157 service hours for the agency. Thank
you for volunteering your time!
Thank you to our partners, the Christian Center and City of Anderson, and to everyone
who supported and participated in the first "Reality Check: Confronting
Homelessness" event. Over 275 people committed their Friday evening to
engage in education and a change in perspective about those facing
homelessness. Remember to be thankful if you have a home and remember
those who don't.
NO one deserves to be abused,
NOT now, NOT ever.
24-Hour Hotline 1-866-593-9999
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