The GAMES Program Breaks Cycles of Abuse

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The GAMES Program helps break the cycle of abuse.

After a childhood of physical and sexual abuse, Paula (name changed for confidentiality) was left emotionally broken and unable to trust anyone. For many years, she attempted to seek help, but her cries were unheard. Although her mother was present throughout her childhood, she was emotionally distant due to the stress of living with an abusive partner. She watched as her mother was belittled and occasionally battered. While her mother was working, the abuse was turned towards her. She was sexually assaulted multiple times. When she finally gained the courage to disclose the abuse, her accusations were ignored by the authorities. She was hopeless; she ran away. Not knowing where to turn, she internalized the pain and turned to alcohol and drugs in her late teens and early twenties.

Her drug habit and risky behaviors resulted in an unplanned pregnancy. Addicted, pregnant, and homeless, she finally sought rehabilitation. After months of intensive counseling, she successfully completed the rehabilitation program and was ready to start a new life with her child. The GAMES transitional housing program provided her with housing and supportive services. During her stay in the program, she set and achieved many goals. She returned to school, obtained a full time job, and continued to remain sober. After two years, she attained permanent housing. The GAMES program provided her with a second chance, an opportunity to improve her education, and the tools to become self sufficient.

Shelter for the Strong-Hearted

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by Stacie Smith, DV Counselor/ Volunteer Coordinator

As the newest staff member at MEG’s House, I was asked to write an article about my experiences since coming on board in September of last year. When I think back over the many faces of the women and children who have come and gone from MEG’s since my coming aboard, the thing that stands out the most in my mind is the tremendous strength and courage of those women.

I have worked in social services all my life, and have had many experiences with social problems and the hardships people face. Never before though, have I been so inspired by the inner resiliency of the clients I am working with.

The women I am working with have stories of hardship that often predate an abusive relationship with a recent partner. Many have broken childhood histories, financial struggles, obstacles that they have faced educationally, and a lifetime of difficult choices. Part of my role as their caseworker and counselor is to motivate and encourage them to make positive changes toward a brighter future. However, it is often I who end up being encouraged.

I have witnessed women with bruised bodies taking time to uplift a newcomer to the shelter and make them feel welcome. I have seen women with little or no family support become each other’s family. I have watched as women come into the shelter with little to smile about gradually grow wide smiles with contagious laughter. Daily I am privileged to walk alongside some of these brave women on a piece of their road to new tomorrows, and it has been the highest honor.

If you too are interested in working with women who are recovering from an abusive relationship contact Stacie about volunteer opportunities and the many ways you can help at (864) 229-8141.

A Message from the Executive Director

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Dear Friends,

I want to begin by saying thank you for making 2014 another year in which Meg’s House was in a position to provide much needed services for domestic violence victims in our community. The dedicated staff has done an outstanding job responding to the needs of those we serve. In addition, we have had tremendous community support. We have also witnessed an increase in support of our efforts because of the national spotlight on domestic violence.

We have experienced positive legislation in South Carolina to add more accountability when perpetrators are convicted and charged with criminal domestic violence. The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence led the way in legislative advocacy and has continued to stay abreast of the process and provide technical support for our program.

Our continued goal is to continue our efforts to be a leader in our community responding to the needs of domestic violence victims. As experts in the area of domestic violence, we provide support and assistance to other agencies, churches, schools, colleges, universities, and businesses in our service area.

In addition, Meg’s House has taken the lead in strengthening and uniting the GAMES (Greenwood, Abbeville, McCormick, Edgefield and Saluda) chapter of homeless service providers in our community.

During the year 2015, we plan to continue our programs and services and utilize all partner agencies to reduce the number of domestic violence related cases and save lives. We invite you to continue to be supportive of our efforts because together we can make a difference and have a significant impact in our community.

 

Alice Hodges, PhD

Executive Director