Cara didn’t come to House of Ruth looking to flee domestic violence. She came looking for childcare.
When she brought her 3 year old daughter, Heather, to Kidspace, Cara thought she was simply enrolling Heather in a safe, nurturing daycare. Cara didn’t expect that Kidspace would change her life, too.
Through a parent wellness group hosted by Kidspace, Cara learned about the dynamics of domestic violence. It was at that moment she saw her relationship for what it was—controlling, unhealthy, and something she wanted to leave.
So, she took a leap.
With Kidspace staff by her side, Cara found safe housing through House of Ruth’s Bridges permanent supportive housing program. She received rental assistance, counseling, and most importantly support. At the same time, she began counseling with our Domestic Violence Support Center, where she learned how to navigate co-parenting in a way that prioritized Heather’s well-being without being manipulated or controlled.
Today, Cara is thriving.
She graduated from the Bridges program and is now living on her own with continued access to House of Ruth staff for support during her first six months post-graduation. Currently, she is working, saving, and planning to buy a home. Heather is thriving, too! A playful, outgoing pre-K student at Kidspace, Heather is full of curiosity and confidence. When a teacher suggested an occupational therapy evaluation, Cara didn’t hesitate. She trusted the expertise of Kidspace staff and continues to advocate for Heather’s needs.
Cara always tells people: “Heather’s school is the best.”
And because of you, Kidspace is the best.
Your heartfelt support makes this work possible. When you donate, you give families like Cara and Heather the chance to build a future free from fear and full of new healthy habits.
Will you help another mother take her leap today? Visit our “Ways to Support” page to learn more.
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*Name has been changed to protect privacy. The included photo may not picture the individuals featured in the story. The photo is of actual House of Ruth program participants.
