For Charlene, the abuse was physical, mental, and emotional. Her ex-husband inflicted beatings that escalated over time and resulted in severe injuries, including a miscarriage. She knew she needed to escape, but that would not be easy. Legal constraints, financial insecurity, and societal pressure made it challenging to break free from her abusive relationship.

Her five children were the driving force behind her decision to leave. She refused to let her children grow up witnessing the horrors of an unhealthy relationship. “I don’t want my kids to think this is what you’re supposed to go through,” says Charlene. “And even times that I thought they weren’t noticing it, they were.”

The move

Getting far away from South Carolina and starting over seemed the best option to stay safe. Her mother lived in Minnesota and could provide her with some support, but her home was not big enough to house Charlene’s family.

With her children’s support, Charlene made the decision. They packed their Toyota Highlander with only a few possessions and embarked on the 20-hour journey.

Arriving in Minnesota, Charlene reached out for help from 360 Communities Lewis House domestic and sexual violence shelter. Initially, the shelter was full, but advocates offered her family temporary refuge in a hotel. Her younger children thought they were on vacation, but Charlene struggled mentally, often crying after her kids went to sleep. A few days later, space opened up at Lewis House, and they moved into the shelter.

Life at Lewis House

The transition to life at the Lewis House was difficult for Charlene. She had reservations about exposing her children to a shelter environment. Charlene faced continued threats from her abuser, leaving her feeling trapped and unsafe.

However, the supportive staff at the Lewis House ensured their safety, well-being, and access to essential resources, including counseling and educational support. Advocates connected her with Minnesota’s Safe at Home program for protection, which would shield their location from her abuser once they left the shelter.

Holistic support for post-shelter life

With their safety needs supported, Charlene began planning for post-shelter life. She had a strong work history, so she began interviewing for jobs. It took her only a short time to land a customer service role with Delta Airlines. As she and her kids transitioned out of the shelter, 360 Communities moved alongside her and connected her with stabilizing resources like rent support, food, gas cards, school clothes, and gift cards.

“I was crying when they did all that,” Charlene recalls. “I just didn’t believe I was going to get that help. The staff there, they are amazing.” She says the advocates met her where she was and did not lecture her about what she needed to do. “They see things from your point of view on how you want to move forward and how they can help you on the path that you want to take. At the same time, they are protecting you and your family.”

Charlene’s story is one of strength, resilience, and the power of a mother’s love. Her determination to create a safe and nurturing environment for her children speaks volumes about her character. Her journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to escape an abusive relationship and that there is hope on the other side.