Holiday Giving and Survivor Empowerment with DVRCSC

Holiday Giving and Survivor Empowerment with DVRCSC

by Deb Greene

The holiday season is here with its celebrations, decorations and cheer. But for some, like victims of domestic violence, the holidays can be a time of sadness, loneliness, and distress. One organization responding to those who've fallen into the second category is Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County (DVRCSC).  Hear what DVRCSC staff member, Deb Greene, had to say about her experience as a victim and her contributions as a survivor and staff member. 

The work I do at the DVRCSC is a passion for me for many reasons, including that I endured domestic violence for ten years back in the seventies. Back then, the resources for victims were pretty much non-existent, and that's primarily because it was simply considered a private issue between spouses, partners and family members. In my own case, it took years but I finally left my husband - with my two children - but had to go "underground" for three months upon making the decision. I was only 23 years old and terrified.

Later, I decided that I didn't want to run forever and returned to R.I. where I got two jobs to support myself and my boys. However, my then ex-husband continued to stalk me for two more years. Without many resources or supports, there were times I truly wanted to give up, but I was determined not to let my abuser win. I also wanted a better life for my children. After all, they didn't ask for the horror they had survived.

During the course of everything I endured, I promised myself that eventually I would help other victims; I got no help but I certainly wanted to make sure others did. Fast forward to today, and I have been involved with the DVRCSC for seventeen years. I started as the faciliator of a support group, but have since worked in different roles at the organizatino's safe home. I truly love my work and feel that I am able to be a positive influence and advocate in my client's lives.

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Join Greene and the entire DVRCSC family in collecting gift cards for groceries, phone minutes, drug stores, department stores, etc. to empower clients to be able to shop for their families and themselves. In order to distribute the cards to clients and to give them to shop for the holidays, please drop off donations in person to 61 Main Street in Wakefield, RI by Friday, December 14th. Hours are Monday through Friday, between 9:00AM and 5:00PM. Please call 401-782-3995 with any questions!

Blog postings and user comments reflect the opinions of the responsible contributor only, and do not reflect the viewpoint of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any posting. The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence accepts no obligation to review every posting, but reserves the right (but not the obligation) to delete postings that may be considered offensive, illegal or inappropriate.

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