Rachel was 32 years old when she and her three children ages 10, 7, and 2 came to the shelter. She had worked at a minimum wage job to help put her husband through school with the hope that she would have her turn. That didn't happen. He grew abusive toward her and repeatedly told her she was stupid. She rationalized that he was under stress from school and she tried to make things easy and calm for him. The physical abuse escalated. When she found herself pregnant, he was furious and demanded she get an abortion, which was against her religious beliefs. The physical abuse continued to escalate, and he sabotaged any attempt she made to go to school. Finances were tight even though he now had a good job. Rachel discovered he had a girlfriend whom he was also supporting.

Rachel called the crisis line after a violent episode and she and her children were directed to the shelter. She learned what her options were, had a chance to think, and received support for the next steps she chose to take. She and her children are now involved in the transitional housing and employment program. Rachel is enrolled in school and on her way to realizing her dream. They are all in therapy to heal the wounds caused by years of abuse.