Amy

Amy knows all about domestic violence.

When she was a child, abuse was always present in one way or another.

“My mother left my abusive father many times but we always returned. One of the reasons was financial, even though she was working,” says Amy. “My father always convinced my mother that she wouldn’t be able to make it without him.” Despite this, her mother eventually managed to break free from the abuse.

But as an adult, Amy soon found the same cycle repeating in her own relationship. Eventually, she found the courage to reach out for help.

She found shelter at Lanark County Interval House, which also provides counseling, financial assistance, legal services, and help with finding affordable housing.

“I can honestly say my counselor and the shelter resources changed my life,” she says. “They helped me heal, which in turn has given me the strength, confidence and independence to be the person I am today.”

After leaving the shelter, Amy went on to achieve many goals: college, travel, and a successful career.

Today, Amy gives back to the shelter as a member of its Board of Directors. She also helps to raise funds for the shelter so other women have the same opportunity as she did to escape violence and transform their lives.