Two years ago, Anna*, a young mother, found herself isolated and alone, far from her family and any support system. Her ex-partner had systematically cut her off from friends and family, leaving her with no one to turn to when his abuse escalated. Desperate and determined to protect her toddler, Anna made a safety plan and fled to a women's shelter. However, they could only house her for a maximum of six weeks. Facing uncertainty about her next steps, a shelter worker suggested she reach out to Alice House.
When a unit became available, Anna and her child moved into Alice House. From the moment they arrived, our team provided the support and guidance they needed to start rebuilding their lives. Anna faced the overwhelming challenges of securing custody of her child and navigating the complexities of the Domestic Violence Court system. Her situation was further complicated by her ex-partner's abuse by proxy, which had led to severe behavioral and emotional issues for their child.
At Alice House, Anna received comprehensive support services and counselling to help her and her child begin the healing process. Our dedicated counsellors were there every step of the way, providing emotional support and systems navigation guidance. Anna worked closely with our staff to rebuild her credit, which had been damaged by her ex-partner's financial abuse. She also accessed our food security program and essential items generously donated by community members.
One of the most critical aspects of Anna's recovery was the sense of safety and security provided by Alice House's residential security features, including confidentially located buildings, security cameras, kick-proof doors, and a private in-unit alarm panel. Knowing they were safe allowed Anna and her child to rest easy and focus on healing.
Slowly but surely, Anna began to rebuild their lives. She worked hard to create a stable and nurturing environment for her child. She observed a remarkable growth in her child, who has become a funny, energetic, and outgoing child. With the support of Alice House, Anna regained her confidence and strength. Now, after months of searching for affordable housing with the help of staff, Anna is preparing to move into her own place at the end of the month—a huge milestone and a testament to her resilience and determination.
Reflecting on her journey, Anna described leaving as "bittersweet" as she will miss the neighbourly relationships she built with the other women in the Safe Housing Program. Anna credits Alice House for the guidance that helped her reach a point where she feels ready to live independently, sharing that the experience has been "incredible and life-changing." Anna finds solace in knowing her space at Alice House will soon help another family in need. She has expressed that "leaving is going to be tough, but I knows our apartment at Alice House will be used to transform another life or lives."
Thank You for Your Support
Anna’s story is just one example of the many lives transformed thanks to supporters like you. Last year alone, we provided over 300 counselling sessions and 200 parenting support sessions to women and children in need. Your generosity makes stories like Anna’s possible, giving hope and a fresh start to those who need it most.
Join us in making a difference. Together, we can continue to empower survivors like Anna on their journey toward healing and independence. Your support truly changes lives. Learn more about how you can get involved here.
* Some aspects of this story, including but not limited to the client’s name, may have been altered to protect the identity. Details are based on true stories.