Two years ago, Christy made one of the hardest decisions of her life.
She left a domestic violence situation because she wanted something every mother wants for her children: a safe place to grow, heal and feel loved.
Leaving is not the end of the struggle. For many women, it is only the beginning.
A mother may leave with her children and spend nights sleeping on a friend’s couch, staying wherever someone will take them. She may leave behind personal belongings, financial security and the life she once knew. She may have to keep moving, keep looking over her shoulder and keep trying to protect her children while wondering how she will provide for them tomorrow.
And children feel that uncertainty, too.
Christy knows this journey firsthand.
“Starting over as a single mother was scary,” she shared. “There were days filled with uncertainty, struggles, and moments when I didn’t know how I would make it all work. But I knew one thing. I had to choose us.”
That is where Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi became part of Christy’s journey.
Through our YES ICS (Intensive Clinical Services) program, Christy and her children received support from caring professionals who met them where they were, both physically and emotionally.
For Christy, one relationship made a particularly lasting difference.
“A special thank you to YES ICS Catholic Charities, Shantel and Sherry, for believing in my family and giving us hope when we needed it most,” Christy said. “Sherry, thank you for being such a guiding light in my daughter’s life. Thank you for making her feel seen, heard and understood.”
Sometimes, healing begins with something as simple as knowing someone sees you.
Someone listens.
Someone believes your family is worth fighting for.
At Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi, our therapists work alongside children and families to strengthen relationships, develop healthy coping skills and help families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments.
Your support makes that possible.
Your gift helps a mother who is starting over find a safe path forward. It helps a child who has experienced fear find someone who will listen. It reminds a family that they are not alone.
Christy chose her children.
You can choose to stand with families like hers.
Please give today and help Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi provide help, create hope and strengthen Hawaiʻi, one family at a time.
