When I moved to Virginia with my husband, I had a plan. I was going to get a great job as a Medical Assistant and watch my kids learn and grow in Goochland. My husband quickly became abusive—verbally, emotionally, physically, sexually, and financially. I wasn’t allowed to work or have friends. He made me get pregnant and then threatened to hurt me and the baby. He stopped paying the bills, so we had no electricity and no food.
I was scared and felt alone. I was at the library one day and saw information about GFCFS Domestic Violence Services. With the help of Goochland Free Clinic and Family Services, I was able to get away from my abusive husband. We moved into their emergency apartment. Because we had a safe place to live and food from the Food Pantry in our stomachs, my kids improved in school and I was able to get a job in the medical field. I shopped for the new baby and my other 3 children at the Clothes Closet using my credits. GFCFS helped me develop a budget and make a plan to relocate to live closer to family members.
Now I have had the baby and my four children and I are safe and happy and close to family. I found a job and my brother provides childcare. I still keep in touch with GFCFS because without their help, I don’t know where I’d be.
