These stories were developed through conversation with victims and survivors who have received services from Center for Safety & Change.
Each story in this series highlights the power of the Center’s programs and illustrates how people may begin to heal with the appropriate support. Those interviewed described the Center as a safe and reliable place to land during difficult times.
The stories reveal the strength of those who told them, touching on what is required to seek and find safety, and what we take and leave behind when we must — or choose to — move on from a place or time.
These stories were curated and written by Jessica Wahlstrom.
Faith’s Story
“Faith recalls the moment that she decided to try to escape from her traffickers. She remembers jumping from the vehicle and running toward a convenience store to find she’d been locked out by the person working inside.”
Read Faith's Story
Maia’s Story
“For many years, she felt trapped in a life that she did not choose. As an adult, when a partner and the father of her youngest child became abusive, threatening to call immigration to manipulate and control her, Maia called the Center for help.”
Read Maia's Story
Paws for Safety Story
“Pets have an uncanny way of finding their way back to places they know, to the people who are their home. They remember us, miss us when we are apart, love us and steady us when we are together.”
Read Paws for Safety Story
Lily’s Story
“With the support of the Center, Lily slowly and consistently grew to feel more connected to the world, to what was happening outside of the life that she had been told she could live.”
Read Lily's Story
A Swimmer’s Story
“When she was connected to Center for Safety & Change several months ago and told them about her experiences, she felt as if she was being looked at, listened to, and lifted for the first time in years.”
Read A Swimmer's Story
Laura’s Story
“Laura is not sure how she got through her statement to the police that day.”
Read Laura's Story
Shannon’s Story
“In the hours and days that followed Shannon’s murder, Center for Safety & Change anticipated and met many ordinary and extraordinary needs of her family.”
Read Shannon's Story