We win when we LIVE UNITED. For nine years the Survivor Resource Network and United Way of Ponca City have partnered to provide hope and help to survivors of violence seeking new direction for their lives through their Rapid Re-Housing program. Most community members are aware that Survivor Resource Network has an emergency shelter for victims, but few know how long and hard the road to safety is for families who have experienced domestic violence. The Rapid Re-Housing program is designed to ensure these families find safe, long-term housing and stable income so that they can stay independent and violence-free. We all win when those in our community are housed and have safe homes!

Tina came to the SRN emergency shelter, fleeing an abusive situation, with her two girls. They were all scared and were unable to take anything with them when they left. Besides from recovering from abuse, traveling for protective orders and doctor visits, Tina had to start over from scratch. She had to find a way to stay safe from her abuser, get a place of her own, furnish a home and provide for her children’s needs all on her own. Tina had been working at the same position for five years, so she already had daycare and a car. However, having the funds to pay all of the initial deposits required to move into a new home was not in her budget. The outlook for Tina was scary and she reached out for help. Survivor Resource Network’s Rapid Re-Housing housing program was a perfect fit.

The Rapid Re-Housing program pays for a home’s deposit and up to three month’s rent for clients like Tina. Tina and her children were able to move out of the shelter and into an apartment. After moving into her home, Tina continued to attend the weekly SRN’s support group, utilized SRN’s counseling program, her girls attended our weekly children’s groups, and they all worked to heal from their trauma.

This is the life-changing effect the Rapid Re-Housing program offers to so many. Participants transform from being bruised, afraid, traumatized, and even hopeless to being strong, independent, healthy, and capable of achieving their goals. The support of the United Way of Ponca City makes this program and so many others in this community possible. If you would like more information about United Way of Ponca City, visit unitedwayponcacity.org or call 765-2476. For more information about Survivor Resource Network or to seek services for yourself or a friend in an abusive relationship, visit SurvivorResource-Network.org or call 762-2873 for free, confidential help, 24 hours a day.