EMPTY STOCKING: A journey to flee violence
When trying to escape the clutches of a violent relationship, some survivors need all the help they can get.
That’s why Shelley was so grateful for the Griffith Centers for Children.
The 34-year-old mother of five, ages 1 to 18 years old, said she is going through a messy divorce and needed some guidance navigating unknown territory. A counselor from Griffith Centers, Nicole Malyj, visits her home three days a week. Malyj also helps Shelley when she must appear in court for domestic violence issues like restraining orders or child custody hearings.
“It’s been pretty difficult,” said Shelley. Only her first name is being used to protect her privacy.
Malyj makes sure the family is doing OK and they have everything they need.
“She has done so much for us,” Shelley said. “She’s here being a therapist for me. Any troubles with the children and she’s on it. She’s just wonderful.”
Malyj, in turn, said Shelley has been working hard and “has come so far” since she came to Griffith.
The Griffith Centers for Children is one of 14 area charities receiving grants from The Gazette-El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund. Griffith provides residential treatment services for at-risk children. In addition, the in-home, community-based services helped more than 700 families in 2008.
As Shelley tries to extract herself from the abusive 14-year marriage, she’s also got her hands full with the children. Her 6-year-old boy suffers from epilepsy and has many special needs.
Though she’s not working now, Shelley says she hopes to get back to school next year. She also wants to find work that will let her stay home and raise her kids.
“Dealing with the kids and the courts right now has been pretty full-time,” she said. “I’m trying to take it slow.”
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To make a secure online donation, go to www.fillanemptystocking.org. Call 476-1673 to make a credit card or stock donation over the phone. Checks can be made payable to the Empty Stocking Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 400, Colorado Springs, CO 80901.
