Safe Haven of Pender

Emergency shelter: the organization successfully supported a client who sought refuge in our shelter with her two children after being wrongfully arrested during an incident involving her abuser. The orgnanization provided court advocacy, answering her questions and guiding her through the complex legal process. Our team also collaborated with law enforcement to safely retrieve the client's and her children's belongings from the shared property. During her stay in the shelter, we connected her to our support group, which she attended regularly and expressed that she gained significant insight and strength from the experience. Additionally, we connected her with the hop program, enabling her to secure stable housing closer to her workplace. As a result of our comprehensive support, this client is now living independently with her children, with no pending criminal charges from the incident, and thriving in a Safe, stable environment. This outcome reflects our organization's commitment to empowering survivors and facilitating their path toward long-term independence.

Court advocacy/domestic violence protection order (dvpo) assistance: our agency has successfully provided ongoing court advocacy and legal support to a survivor of severe domestic violence, ensuring her safety and legal protection. We advocated for and assisted the client in obtaining a dvpo, leading to her abuser's arrest and deportation. Continued support has included aiding in the legal fight to retain her home, coordinating with attorneys to gather evidence, and guiding her through the u visa process. Through comprehensive advocacy, safety planning, and resource connection, we empowered the client to understand her rights, navigate legal complexities, and heal from trauma. The victim expressed deep gratitude for the life-changing support provided.

Emergency financial assistance: during this fiscal year, our agency provided $82,740 in direct client services to ensure that domestic violence survivors receive the immediate help and long-term support they need to heal, rebuild their lives, and regain their independence and dignity.our permanent support housing program, Safe at home (sah), provides rental assistance, financial support, and critical wraparound services to survivors, enabling them to achieve stability and independence. Through the program, many clients have secured employment and began saving money while sustaining a Safe and stable environment for their children - something many have never experienced before. Sah also covers application fees, childcare, utilities, and past eviction payments, removing financial barriers that often hinder survivors' progress. With the 2025 funding, we aim to expand our reach in duplin county, ensuring that even more survivors receive the comprehensive support needed to rebuild their lives.