Good Shepherd Shelter is designed for women who are determined to end the cycle of domestic violence. It is a safe and nurturing place where mothers and their children can heal, reawaken their dignity and self confidence, and learn the skills that will help them create a loving home and a future that is full of possibilities for them and their children.
In the shelter’s unique Adult Learning Center, each mother engages in an extensive program of classes, groups and work responsibilities that help her to heal and focus on her growth as a person, parent and provider for her children.
Within the security of her own family apartment, she can create a healthy family on a new foundation of safety, trust and support. Women can stay in the shelter for as long as they need.
When families are ready to leave Good Shepherd Shelter, they leave equipped with the skills they need to lead safe, productive lives.
“Women and children come to us frightened and traumatized by violence and abuse,” said Sr. Anne Kelley, executive director of the shelter.
“Women leave our shelter transformed, with a new outlook on life and determination never to repeat the cycle of violence. Their confidence, self-actualization and good parenting passes to their children, the next generation, to end the cycle of domestic violence,” she said.
The Good Shepherd shelter has its own school within the private and secure compound, which provides the children with a protected educational environment where they can thrive.
Most of the children enter the school below grade level when they are placed in the Good Shepherfd program. Most of them exit the program above grade level by the time the families are ready to leave the shelter to move on to the next phase of their lives.
“Most of the children in our program excel in schools they attend after leaving us, and many go on to college, including prestigious universities,” Sr. Anne said.
To assist mothers in their commitment to heal and grow, Good Shepherd Shelter needs a commitment from you. Will you help the Good Shepherd Sisters build a life of hope for these families?
To see how you can help, please visit http://www.goodshepherdshelter.org.
Good Shepherd Shelter is a sponsored ministry of Sisters of the Good Shepherd Province of Mid-North America.
