"I'm not ready to die. I thank God for this place," shared a resident at Shelterhouse who had arrived two nights earlier. The residents come together each morning with a client advocate to plan goals for the day. A woman with two small children needed a dentist appointment, help with her Medicaid status and planned to submit job applications that afternoon. Other residents were planning to visit grandchildren, attend counseling sessions and offered to drive others on their job hunt. They all agreed that turkey and stuffing would be the meal they would prepare together at dinner.

 This is a glimpse into the daily routine of a victim of domestic violence seeking refuge at Shelterhouse. Many residents show up with only the clothes on their back, and struggle with making even the smallest decision, like "What's for dinner." For many survivors of abuse, the ability to make every day decisions has been taken away.

 Independence is a desire for every resident, including housing, employment and securing health care for themselves and their children. Many also need help navigating the legal system. Living together can be a very important first step, as they learn to trust and make connections with other people. They are encouraged to find common ground and overcome the isolation that so many have experienced.

Your support of United Way makes the healing process possible for the residents of Shelterhouse. To find out more about Shelterhouse or how you can help make a difference, visit http://www.shelterhousemidland.org/.

 Follow along with us as we share our weekly series highlighting our partner agencies!