Since the lock-downs began, women in Peterborough and Haliburton County have reported abuse that is far more serious and complex.
A national survey conducted by Ending Violence Association of Canada & London, Ontario-based Anova found that abusers’ tactics are becoming more violent & frequently deadly.
*The following letter was written and shared by a woman who stayed at Crossroads Shelter as a child. Her name has been changed to protect her privacy.
Dear Friend of the YWCA,
There are no words to express how relieved I was when my mom left and took me with her to YWCA Crossroads Shelter.
Weekends were the worst, when the shouting and the violence always happened. Not only was my mom hit, but possessions were destroyed too.
My mom did her best to protect me from what was going on, but I always knew what was happening. Children know, even if you think you’re doing everything you can to hide the abuse.
At Crossroads, I felt safe for the first time in my life.
The shelter team was wonderful, helping us to process what had happened and helping us get settled in a new apartment. They guided my mom on things she had to do to get our lives in order.
They gave us a way out and proof that someone cared, when all we’d ever been told was that we were worthless.
My mom and I will be forever grateful!
YWCA Peterborough Haliburton is still providing safety, support, meals and resources so that women and children can escape violence and begin the process of rebuilding their lives. But they can’t do it alone.
I can’t imagine how different my life might look today if it weren’t for the caring, compassionate women at the YWCA.
Please make a donation today. Women and children need your help now, just as much as we did when I was a child.
Sincerely,
Ava*
P.S. The severity of violence that women are experiencing continues to increase during the pandemic. Please help by giving your donation today!