Where Families Turn in Times of Crisis
Recently, one of our newer guests became a heart-wrenching statistic. A mother with two teens had been living with her abuser for 9 years. A couple months ago, the abuse became bad enough that she called the police. Her significant other was arrested, and she and her children had no where to go. The police brought them to us.
Since arriving, the family have begun to smile more. They were very appreciative to have a place to stay and food to eat. After a couple months, with help from the staff, they received a voucher for housing. They happily moved into their new apartment right before Christmas.
Did you know that tonight alone, 80 to 100 women and children are staying with us because of abusive partners? And they are far from alone. Across the United States, one in four women experiences domestic violence. Here in Lincoln, that translates to over 30,000 women, not including the many children who also endure the devastating effects of abuse. Men, too, seek refuge with us after suffering domestic violence.
We ask you to join us in prayer for this courageous young woman and others like her, who are struggling to heal from the pain of broken relationships. Please remember their children as well—they are the ones who bear the deepest scars from these traumatic experiences.
At the Mission, we are dedicated to supporting survivors of abuse. We strive to make their time here as positive and restorative as possible. We remind them that they are not alone and that their situation is not their fault. We help them find alternate housing and connect them to other services here in Lincoln. Most importantly, we assure them of God’s unconditional love and care as they take steps toward a brighter future.
We need your help to continue this important work. The winter months always bring an increase in those seeking our assistance, and your financial support can make a tremendous difference. No matter the size, your gift will help us provide safety, care, and hope to those in desperate need.
Thank you for your compassion and partnership. Together, we can change lives and bring healing to those who are hurting.
God’s rich blessings,
Pastor Tom
How does PCM help women and families in crisis?
In addition to food, shelter and clothing, we provide casework that includes:
• Employment searches
• Connecting to resources for physical & mental health, as well as substance use counseling.
• Assistance with applying for Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), ADC, and social security.
• Help in finding a place to live and navigate their first steps to getting into housing of their own.
• Filling out restraining orders and custody paperwork.
• Providing a dynamic Christmas full of gifts, goodies, and parties.
• Resources for their immediate needs such as getting their children enrolled in school, getting their ID, registering to vote, and getting their birth certificates.
• One of our staff even helped an elderly guest get the tennis balls on her walker recently. 🙂
One more way YOU can help:
We are in need of twin XL mattresses, sheets sets and mattress protectors. Donations can be dropped off at our Shelter at 110 Q St., or use our Amazon Wish List.