Sami was just 9 years old when he and his mother, Miriam, moved from Tunisia to Tampa to live with Miriam's husband.  Miriam was rightfully concerned about how Sami would adapt to living in a new country. It wasn't long until Mariam realized that cultural adjustments were the least of her problems, and that her new life in the United States had turned into a nightmare.

Mariam's husband physically and emotionally abused both her and Sami.  Then one day, as she and Sami were driving to an immunization appointment, he told her that he had been molested numerous times by his step dad. Sami had been afraid to say anything to his mom because his step dad had threatened  

to harm Miriam if Sami said anything. 

At first, Mariam didn't want to believe it, but she soon took steps to get her and Sami in a safe environment. She left her husband and moved to a shelter where she learned about the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

At the Crisis Center, Mariam and Sami received help through Sexual Assault Services, Corbett Trauma Center, and Family Stabilization. The Corbett Trauma Center provided counseling for her and Sami due to the severe emotional trauma they both experienced. They participated in the Strengthening Families Program to help Sami work through the behavior problems that stemmed from the abuse he experienced.  Family Stabilization was able to provide basic food and household items to help them begin a new life. The Crisis Center even found a way to support Sami in his Tae Kwon Do lessons to help to reinforce discipline and good behavior.

Mariam wanted to share her thankfulness. "The Crisis Center has been extremely helpful and went beyond what counselors would normally offer. Both my son and I have seen our self-esteem increase and that means a lot!"

Sami is still working with the team at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. His  

mom understands that his healing will take time and is grateful that the Crisis Center is there for her and her son.

The Crisis Center is here to provide help, hope and healing to kids, teens, and adults, but we need the ongoing support of donors to make this happen! To make a donation to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, please click HERE.