When She Protects Her Children
Since its inception, the core of The Dwelling Place’s mission has been mothers and children healing side by side. When a mother arrives, her children are just as important.
Abuse changes how a mother protects her children. Because safety isn’t at home; it’s at a shelter, on a friend’s couch, or in a car. Peace isn’t carrying her child on her hip and narrating her day; it’s holding her child tight and covering their ears. Freedom isn’t laughing together on the floor; it’s escaping at night. The consequences of abuse are great, but they are not permanent.
Children arrive at The Dwelling Place having faced countless challenges in their short lives. Oftentimes, they’ve spent most of their lives in shelters, moving multiple times, and lacking enough space to play. For many, adults come in and out of their lives with little to no explanation. The Children’s Program Manager, Risa, said, “I see children with separation anxiety, delayed milestones, withdrawn behaviors, or just confusion about their entire situation.”
While a mom attends classes, therapy, or case management, her child is just a room away, receiving care tailored to them. “Kids get so excited when they first walk into our space because they can tell it’s for them,” said Risa. Risa works with each child on identifying feelings, developing a positive self- image, asking for help, and learning God’s truth, that they are loved. Risa said, “They are so resilient, find joy in the circumstances, and build the sweetest relationships with each other.”
Risa’s advocacy goes beyond the program. She partners with teachers and social workers, ensuring each child’s needs are met in every setting. She also helps parents navigate complex decisions, explaining how choices can affect their children’s development and well-being.
“I just want a kid to have a good day,” said Risa. “I can’t control everything happening to them, but that’s my daily motivation and hope for them.”
Risa’s hopes for the children go beyond healing. She dreams of breaking the cycles of abuse entirely. “I want them to hear a voice inside their head that says: You are worthy, you are valuable, and you are loved by God. A voice that will protect them.”
