Breaking the Cycle: Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence at Homestretch
Every October, communities across the country observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month to raise our voices against abuse, honor the strength of survivors, and recommit ourselves to ending violence in all its forms. At Homestretch, this month holds particular meaning. Every day, we walk alongside families who have fled unimaginable situations of violence, carrying not only the physical and emotional wounds of abuse but also the uncertainty of what comes next.
For a parent escaping domestic violence, safety is the first priority. Yet leaving an abusive situation often comes with enormous risks: loss of housing, financial instability, disrupted employment, and fractured support networks. For families with children, these challenges are compounded by the need to create stability, security, and hope for young children deeply impacted by trauma.
This is where Homestretch steps in. Our mission is to empower homeless parents with children to rebuild their lives through safe housing and comprehensive wrap around services. More than half of the families we serve each year are survivors of domestic violence. They arrive at our doors seeking refuge, but they also bring courage, resilience, and a desire to create a better future.
We know that housing alone is not enough. Survivors need wraparound support to truly heal and thrive. That’s why Homestretch offers a holistic program that addresses the many layers of recovery. Families receive counseling, financial coaching, career development, access to education, legal resources, and life skills training. These services are designed not only to stabilize families in the present but also to break the cycle of abuse that often spans generations.
The transformation we witness is remarkable. Parents who once feared for their lives gain the tools and confidence to pursue stable careers, secure permanent housing, and provide their children with consistent, nurturing care. Children who have endured instability and trauma begin to heal, excel in school, and rediscover the joy of being a child.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that this issue is not hidden in the shadows of society but is present in every community, affecting people across all backgrounds. It also reminds us that healing and change are possible when communities come together to support survivors.
As we reflect this October, we invite you to stand with survivors and with Homestretch. Here are three ways you can make a difference:
- Learn and Share – Educate yourself and others about the signs of abuse and the resources available to survivors.
- Advocate – Use your voice to promote policies and programs that protect families and create pathways to stability.
- Support – Partner with Homestretch by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word about our mission. Every act of support helps families on their journey from crisis to independence.
This month and every month Homestretch reaffirms our commitment to creating a world where survivors of domestic violence are not defined by their trauma but empowered to live lives of dignity, safety, and possibility. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and build stronger, healthier communities for generations to come. To learn more about our work, visit www.homestretchva.org today.
Barfonce Baldwin
Executive Director