Penny entered the meeting room lined with ladies living in the residential facility. As a new resident she expressed how grateful she was to be part of the healing small group provided by Alive at Last.
Each of the 20 women in the group took turns sharing part of their story. Penny knew she would be the last one in the circle to share. She seemed nervous. When her turn came to share she just expressed that she was grateful to be part of the group, but she shared nothing about her past.
Later as the group dismissed and began to leave the room. It was like something broke inside Penny. She shared with small group leader, Stacy how she had lived years with an alcoholic, abusive husband. She stayed because at least she had a home for her and her kids. She didn’t think she could provide for them on her own. She had no family to turn to because they were toxic and abusive also.
Although her husband abused her, he had never hurt the kids. So she stayed. Then one day, her husband came home drunk. This time he beat her young son in a fit of rage.
Penny began her exit plan.
She packed the car and her kids while her husband slept in a drunken stupor.
Today Penny gives credit to God for helping her find shelter and safety. She and her kids are still healing from the wounds of domestic abuse. But Penny has hope and a community of support through Alive at Last.
If you would like to help and support women like Penny live free and find their God given purpose then just click the links below!