Success Story

Today we’re bringing you the story of Gizelle, who stayed in Raphael House's emergency domestic violence shelter. Stories like hers are exactly the kind of powerful change your generosity makes possible!

"I always wanted to be a mom, and having my babies was the happiest I’d ever been! But little by little, my ex took our joy away. First, the cats had to go. Then I couldn’t see my best friend anymore. Then holidays were too expensive, so no decorations. There were a lot of tears.

I was just so focused on keeping the peace, and us safe, I didn’t realize how bad it’d gotten. By then I had no job, no friends, and two toddlers. That’s when I called Raphael House.

We moved into the shelter last October, and right away the kids picked Halloween costumes (a unicorn and astronaut – cute!). Seeing them so excited again was a jolt. It made me realize I could never let things go back.

The advocates at Raphael House have been our cheerleaders from day one. They planned fun activities, like decorating cookies, so we could make new traditions. And they helped us get an apartment and furniture, and connected me with a job program.

My ex is fighting for custody, which is really scary. So, I’m glad to still have our advocates for support. Plus, we go back for food boxes (groceries are expensive!) and my parenting group every week.

Me and the kids are getting to decide what our lives look like – and choose our joy! We just put paper stars in all our windows, which my ex would never have allowed. Raphael House helped make our new life possible, and thanks for being our cheerleaders, too!

Love, 

Gizelle, Miles, and Aubrey"