Stories of Resilience
When Carla, an immigrant with only an elementary school education, made the decision to enter Second Step, she was at a low point in her life financially and was also suffering from depression and anxiety. Second Step staff worked with Carla to help her find new employment and engage in financial planning, which helped her get her confidence back. She was able to find additional employment so that she could provide for her two children and start reducing the debts her abuser had incurred on her behalf.
Carla recently exited the program with permanent housing, a 44% increase in her income to more than $60K annually, and her debts reduced in half, with plans to pay the balance within the next 18 months. Carla now feels proud of herself for the accomplishments she achieved during her stay at Second Step, especially given the multiple challenges she faced – including her education level, a language barrier, and previous trauma and abuse.
Layla began receiving services after an incident in which her husband physically assaulted her. Beyond this incident, Layla has experienced a history of emotional, psychological, physical, financial, and reproductive abuse from this batterer.
The police were contacted, and the abuser was arrested. Layla filed for a civil restraining order and a divorce. C4DP’s Bilingual Legal Systems Advocate supported Layla in creating a safety plan for the first several months post-separation – a critical period due to the high risk of violence.
Layla and her abuser have a young child together, and C4DP’s Bilingual Legal Systems Advocate supported her through multiple custody and visitation issues. The advocate also provided referrals to attorneys for assistance with the civil legal process, as well as information about the criminal process, victim rights, and support navigating systems.
With her divorce finalized, she now has her own housing and transportation. A criminal trial has been set for later this year, and a criminal protective order (CPO) is in place to safeguard Layla from further abuse. The expertise of C4DP’s Bilingual Legal Systems Advocacy team supported Layla in successfully negotiating full custody of their child.
Layal is adamant that having C4DP’s Bilingual Legal Systems Advocate by her side has been essential on her journey to find justice. She recently reported feeling safe and empowered to live independently. She hopes to one day support the advocacy of C4DP and the movement to end domestic violence.
