Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness among women and their children in the United States. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, between 22% and 57% of women and children experience homelessness due to domestic violence, with 38% of all victims facing homelessness at some point in their lives. When a victim decides to leave an abusive partner, finding safe and affordable housing often becomes one of the most significant barriers for themselves and their children.

Since taking the helm at Help In Crisis in 2017, I’ve been acutely aware of this pressing issue. The average stay in shelter is only 30 to 45 days, which is simply not enough time for many to rebuild their lives. Faced with overwhelming obstacles, some feel that returning to their abuser is the only option. This realization sparked my vision for an independent living environment where survivors could transition between shelter and permanent housing. 

In 2020, we launched a transitional housing pilot program that provided twelve months of rental assistance and supportive services. This unique approach allowed survivors to develop individualized service plans tailored to their specific needs, maximizing their chances for
success. I am proud to share that, to date, seven survivors have participated in this program, achieving a remarkable 100% success rate. This means none have returned to their abuser, and all are now supporting their families independently.

After years of working towards this vision, we are thrilled to announce a new opportunity, made possible with the support of the City of Tahlequah. We have purchased a large home to remodel into four individual apartment units. I believe that when survivors have secure and safe housing for themselves and their children, they can finally focus on setting meaningful goals to transform
their futures. 

My staff has suggested naming this project “Laura’s Place,” but it’s important to acknowledge the many individuals who have supported me along this journey, including current and former board members, community partners, and the dedicated Help In Crisis staff.
“Laura’s Place” aims to be an independent living community for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault— a place where transformation and healing can take root, and individuals are loved back to life. I hope you will be inspired to invest in “Laura’s Place” and help us change lives forever.

Join the Laura’s Place Building Campaign here: Building Hope one square foot at a time.

​

Building Hope Phase 1

• $50 “Supporter of Hope”: These donors believe in the mission of Help in Crisis and helping educate and promote the importance of the agency. 

• $250 “Champion of Safety”: These donors believe in the mission of safety and security for families who are rebuilding as survivors of domestic violence

• $500 “Guardian of Healing”: These donors believe in supporting the journey of healing for families who are rebuilding as survivors of domestic violence 

• $1000 “Builder of Resilience”: These donors believe in setting the course of resiliency for families who are rebuilding as survivors of domestic violence

• $5000.00 “Legacy Bronze”: These donors believe in being a part of building a legacy that supports families who are rebuilding as survivors of domestic violence

• $10000.00 “Legacy Silver”: etc. These donors believe in strengthening the legacy of Help in Crisis and impacting families who are rebuilding as survivors of domestic violence 

• $15000.00 “Legacy Gold”: etc.: These donors believe in the mission of Help in Crisis and want to be a part of building change for the future

​​

Gifts of $1,000 and above will be included on our donor plaque recognition wall.

Interested in becoming a Legacy Partner? 

• Gifts of $10,000.00 and above will include naming rights of some of our spaces.  

• Legacy donors will also receive recognition on our website and social media.

​​

All donors will receive a monthly newsletter with updates on the progress of the project.