A Survivor’s Story of Strength, Community, and New Beginnings

Kenya describes herself as a “free-spirited human being” and “a very positive person.” She loves yoga and traveling.

A few years ago, she found herself navigating a relationship that threatened the very sense of freedom and positivity she valued.

What began as emotional and mental abuse eventually escalated into physical violence. Kenya had moved out of state to be with her partner at the time, meaning she was isolated from her usual support system, and he had become one of the only people she could depend on.

When an argument turned physical, Kenya feared for her life and fortunately made the decision to leave, which marked the beginning of a new chapter that would eventually lead her to Calvary Women’s Services.

For Kenya, coming to Calvary meant finding renewed strength and a community she could count on.

“In the situation I was in, had it not been for me finding Calvary, I would still be in this world thinking, I’m fighting a battle alone,” she shared. “Calvary is definitely a shield and I love it.”

Kenya joined Calvary as part of our Sisters Rise program. Sisters Rise is one of Calvary’s permanent housing programs that supports women who are survivors of domestic violence.

“There were always things I knew about myself. I would say that Calvary relit that. Calvary ignited who I used to be,” Kenya shared.

As a survivor of domestic violence who once found herself without a strong support system, Kenya shares that the community of women she has found at Calvary has been instrumental in helping her regain her confidence and sense of belonging.

She enjoys gathering for holiday celebrations, participating in community events, and simply getting together for conversations with Calvary staff and other clients.

Moreover, Kenya values the opportunity to connect with women from different walks of life. She describes listening to other women’s stories as an experience that leaves her feeling inspired and grateful.

Their experiences remind her that while every woman’s journey is different, there is strength in having a community that understands, encourages, and supports one another.

At Calvary Women’s Services, we recognize that for survivors, finding safety and a stable home is a significant milestone, but it is still not the end of a woman’s journey.

For survivors, rebuilding a life can be challenging, especially when navigating new employment opportunities, establishing financial stability, rebuilding confidence, and learning to recognize what healthy relationships look like.

Even when women enter our permanent housing programs, they continue to receive this level of support and have opportunities to discuss healthy relationships with staff, access resources, and receive guidance as their needs and circumstances evolve.

Kenya works closely with Calvary case manager Josalyn Herndon, who continues to support her and empower her to reconnect with herself. She shares that Josalyn, like Calvary’s case managers, goes above and beyond to support the women she serves. Josalyn has accompanied Kenya to housing events, helped her explore new employment opportunities, and regularly shared resources.

Today, Kenya is looking to transition from retail into an office-based role, and Calvary continues to support her as she works toward that goal.

But for Kenya, the impact of that relationship goes beyond professional guidance.

“She’s not just a case manager. She’s like the sister, the friend, the cousin, the voice,” Kenya shared.

Kenya also describes how Josalyn supports her during overwhelming moments, helping her feel grounded and offering encouragement when she needs it most.

Kenya also credits Da’Shawn Hinson, Calvary’s Crisis Intervention Specialist, for consistently sharing employment opportunities, job fairs, and community resources.

These relationships have truly empowered Kenya to discover new opportunities and feel more connected to the support available to her.

Her experience reflects the importance of continued engagement with women after they’ve secured housing. As their lives change, so do their goals, challenges, and aspirations. Having someone who continues to check in, listen, and provide guidance can make a meaningful difference.

Today, Kenya has embraced a new chapter of her life with optimism. After taking time to reflect and heal, and through personal growth and therapy, she has become more intentional about recognizing unhealthy behaviors and establishing boundaries.

Her experiences have shaped the way she approaches relationships today, and she continues to prioritize herself. When reflecting on how far she’s come, Kenya shared:

“I can honestly say when I walked away from the last relationship, I let a weight go.”

Throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Calvary community has come together to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with survivors.

Calvary remains committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence in our community and ensuring women have access to the housing, resources, and ongoing support they need.

The DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that 41% of women in DC have experienced domestic violence.

Kenya’s story reminds us that this commitment matters long after October comes to an end.

When asked what she would want others to understand about her journey, Kenya shared:

“That it’s never too late and you should never be ashamed of your situation.” She expanded by saying, “Somebody is genuinely trying to help you in Calvary.”

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close, we invite you to help ensure more women have access to the housing, resources, and community they need to build their next chapters.

Your gift to Calvary Women’s Services helps us continue walking alongside women like Kenya, not only as they find safety, but as they pursue the futures they deserve.