Marine (name changed) is a mother of 4 children, ages 2-9. On November 30, 2015, after 11 years in a physically abusive marriage, she mustered the tremendous courage to leave the relationship and call the Women’s Resource Center’s (WRC) crisis hotline to ask for help. She fled to her parents’ home, where she was given temporary refuge. However, they are very poor and cannot house Marine and her children permanently.

The funds raised here will be used to provide her and her children with food and accommodations for 6 months. The WRC will create a support system in her new village of residence to ensure the family’s wellbeing. During this time, the WRC will also work on building her professional skills so that she starts earning income to provide for her family.

There are just two shelters for women in the entire country and both are at capacity. Armenia does not have laws specifically criminalizing domestic violence, and this is still a taboo subject. It’s therefore challenging to bring perpetrators to justice. Despite years of daily beatings, the sad reality is that her husband will most likely not be imprisoned. Marine's safety is on the line, but with a strong network of local supporters, including regular visits from the WRC, she can be given a chance at a different life.  Additionally, the Women’s Support Center will provide legal counsel.

For years, not only has Marine endured physical violence (including during her pregnancies), but she’s also managed to raise 4 children in absolute poverty. She’s done the really difficult part of leaving the relationship and seeking help, despite the social stigma and shame associated with domestic violence. From here on out, she doesn’t need to do it alone.

$120 a week will pay for for food, utilities, and rent. During this holiday season, we ask you to consider donating to help her start this new phase of her life.