October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Cedar Valley United Way helps fund area agencies that provide support and safety for anyone who is fighting the battle with domestic violence. One of these agencies, Seeds of Hope, LIVES UNITED by developing programs and services that inspire hope to create opportunities for a better tomorrow. The following success stories prove the great work that Seeds of Hope has been doing.
 
After several years of living with an abusive and alcoholic man, a woman left him and reported it to the police, gaining protection for her family. She has a strong support system helping her through these tough times. She has been employed and retained an attorney to do custody papers. This woman can now look forward to a better life.
 
A mother, separated from her abusive partner, accepted services from DHS. She got clean through Horizons, and then visited with a Seeds of Hope employee to find a job and place to live. She also successfully regained custody of her daughter. She did all this with only a professional support system. Realizing that her abusive partner is only getting worse, she has now done everything needed to stay safe. She is well educated and used her background to get a job. Her plans now involve moving on with her life without her husband.