Picture a women’s domestic violence shelter. What pops into your head? Do you see a small, dimly lit room with rows of cots? Or do you see the images we witnessed at Family Violence Prevention Services in San Antonio: a warm, friendly environment where anyone is welcome, for as long as they need. At Haute in Texas, we do our best to volunteer as often as we can with local charities and organizations. This past week, Intern Ashley and I spent the day at FVPS, and we were both humbled and amazed by what we saw.
The first thing that struck me was how much it takes, physically and financially, to run a shelter housing women and children. Essentially the staff at FVPS is operating a small city, and trying to heal the hurt within it at the same time. They literally need to provide everything from clothes, to food, to laundry detergent for these women, and all at no cost. The shelter includes more than just a roof over the residents’ heads: there’s a school, a free medical clinic, and a child care program so women can work or focus on their educations. A kennel for family pets is also in the works. Some of these women come to FVPS with nothing, but they are always given all the necessities of life, generous meals, and the support system they need. All are welcome to stay as long as they wish, provided they are working towards their goals through counseling and educational programs.
We spent time playing with the kids during their scheduled free time, and I was so moved by how bright and energetic the kids were. One little boy and I played a game of Around the World, followed by Horse, during which a young girl joined in on the games. The entire time, the girl was saying “Miss” after every sentence. “Are you a basketball player, miss? Can we play one-on-one, miss? How tall are you, miss?” By the end of our time on the basketball court, I wanted to pick her up and take her home with me. Some of these kids may very well be inside the walls of the shelter for an extended period of time. And yet it doesn’t break them. They are still curious, fun-loving children who, despite all odds, have hope and faith that their lives are going to get better.
So how can you help? If you’re interested in volunteering, contact Melissa at melissa -dot- schulz @ fvps -dot- org. They are always in need of donations as well, so contact her as well for a current list of items. In addition, volunteers can schedule birthday parties or any sort of celebration they want to plan. One of the most endearing projects they told us about was groups (including local high schools like Lanier) coming in and hosting makeup workshops, donating free hair cuts, etc. While it’s easy to focus on the superficial in the fashion and beauty industry, giving a woman a renewed sense of pride from a new haircut or makeup routine is quite the noble purpose. Also, we would be remiss not to mention one more point: if you feel you may be a victim of domestic abuse, give FVPS a call at 210-733-8810. It’s completely anonymous, you will never be forced to file a police report, and they are extremely careful about handling all matters securely and safely.
A huge thanks to Melissa and Laura for sitting down to talk with us, and for allowing us a small glimpse into the world of FVPS. Given the circumstances of some of these families, it was certainly a leap of faith to allow a blogger in for a whole afternoon, but I hope they know how much the opportunity was appreciated, and how much it will be cherished.
** Names and photos are not able to be used for any of the residents or facilities to ensure the safety of the women and families in the shelter.
XO,
A
