Have you ever been in a toxic relationship and it seemed like there was no way out? Whether it’s a family member or a close friend, the decision to leave is never easy. You second guess yourself, asking questions like “how am I going to make it without them?” or “maybe they’ll really change this time?” It takes courage, strength and a new perspective to finally close the door and walk towards the health you deserve.

For Sarah* and her children, this meant fleeing a home that wasn’t safe. It meant staying with friends and dealing with a different kind of fight – the fight for custody of her children. But without a permanent residence to provide them safety and consistency, how could she prove to the courts that placing the children in her custody was the best thing for them? Without enough money to cover the deposit, she struggled to find a place she could rent. The monthly rent wouldn’t be a problem and she had consistent income with her job. She just needed a little help to get her in the door.

Enter POM. Sarah* and one of our case managers discussed plans over the phone and how we could assist her. But there was one small snag. Sarah* and her kids didn’t live in our service area. But because her children attend the White River School District and because of our amazing partnership with them, we could continue to move forward assisting them and lifting them up out of crisis. After getting all the paperwork and references squared away, Sarah and her kids moved into their new apartment a few weeks ago.

At POM, we know this apartment means more than just a roof over their head. It means security and safety. It means a place full of hope and the opportunity to make new memories. It means putting fear in the rearview mirror and seeing peace on the road laid out for them.