Shlog Section-f

Where can someone in your community go when they’re being abused?  I don’t know of any organizations or programs that help in these situations in the Nashville area unless kids are involved.  I’m sure they exist, I just don’t know about them?  What are they even called?  I don’t even know what to Google?

Shaun,

Google

women’s shelter

or

domestic violence

Is she ready to get out of the home or does she just want counseling? 

n

Shaun,

I would try Graceworks first.  I always try them.  They were always my number one choice for donations when I was managing and Kroger wanted to get rid of stuff.  They help all kinds of needs.  There is a halfway house in Columbia, faith based of course, I don’t know if its domestic abuse victims or drug abuse or runaways or who.  There is also a 24 hour crisis intervention for rape, abuse, drugs, etc.  I can get you numbers…

Kim

We’ve got our friend taken care of.  I can’t say exactly what that means since her husband or someone who knows him well could be lurking about.  That’s why the vagueness in the post today as well.

I’m asking more in general, wherever YOU live, what resources are available for women in these circumstances who might not have the nosey and relentlessly helpful circle of friends my wife’s friend has.

When the smoke clears maybe I’ll talk about what went down.  If I think it would be helpful at all.

Nancy, I was told today that our local women’s shelter is in such high demand that they prioritize women with children above all others.  Which would help our friend but what about a woman without kids?  I can’t believe the demand is so high.  Maybe we need more shelters in Nashville.  Wondering how to pitch in on that one.

I’m glad you got your friend taken care of...I know a deputy or 2 that may be able to help in the future.  One kept me informed with my dad’s case.  If nothing else, he’s good for an escort.

Kim

Shaun,
Yes, the demand for women’s shelters is very high.  My wife and I have, in the past, volunteered at a women’s shelter.  Not working with the residents, but just helping out with facilities.  They are intentionally hard to find, and working with them required a background check before I could find out their address (very strict with men).  Priority is given to women with children, and there was a waiting list.  A waiting list to try to get a safe place away from someone threatening your life!  And yet, when this happens, it is still too often swept under the rug, excused away, or ignored by those with power to do something about it.  Resources are way too scarce, and under-emphasized, for helping battered spouses.

Since moving to Houston, we have not been involved with a shelter, but the memories of the need and lack linger.

We have two options here in our town of 30,000.  One is called Grace Place.  They have a 2nd hand shop downtown, as well as a place where they do parenting classes and other “life living courses.” They have several safe places for woman in town and in other communities near here that are safe houses.  The other place we have is called Volunteer Services.  It’s an organization funded by several churches in town.  They have a food shelf, clothing, they can help with utility payments, finding shelter for homeless and for abused woman.  It’s one of the only towns I’ve lived in where I knew exactly where to go if I ever needed to find help for someone.

There are some websites, and a lot of homes where I come from.  But the women always get stuck on waiting lists.  What is the use of that?  It is hard to give christian support also because a lot women are keeping it quiet.  Very difficult situation.

Shaun,
I’ve thought and prayed on this occassionally over the last few months.  I was wondering - could you could give a general update on how your friends are doing?