I am a survivor of domestic violence.

Four years ago I hit rock bottom, landing in a battered women’s shelter with my two young daughters and four bags to our names. Though we had finally escaped the abuse, I felt trapped between the excitement of being free and the overwhelming powerlessness of having to start all over from the beginning.

My family found a community of support at Mercy Housing. Working closely with the case managers I was able to attend job development meetings and life skills classes. With the assistance of Mercy Housing, I enrolled in college three months after moving into my Mercy home.

Today, we have health insurance and a family doctor, and my children get after-school help during homework club. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social work and am currently on my way to receiving a master’s in social work from the University of Washington.

Recently, I had the opportunity to make a difference for others in need. I went to Olympia and, standing face-to-face with lawmakers, I spoke on behalf of vulnerable populations in Washington State. I found strength in telling my story, and I will continue to use it to help others in need.

Mercy Housing changed my life and the lives of my daughters. We’re on a powerful path of transformation, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

— Renee
Mercy Housing Northwest Resident