After nearly 10 years in an abusive marriage, I left my home (at the advice of my counselor at Renew). I cannot even begin to tell you what it felt like to leave my home. Even more so, what it felt like that first night in the shelter to know that I was safe. I spent 5 months at the shelter due to court procedings and rulings. During this time, I recieved group and individual counseling. The staff became like family to my girls and I. When I first got there, I didn't believe in myself at all. Each of the staff members believed in me. They saw in me what I couldn't find in myself. With the help of counseling and support, I started to find myself and believe in myself. When I was able to leave the shelter, they helped with toiletries as well as food. They also gave me a gift card from furnishing a fresh start to purchase items for my home. I am still in counseling at renew. It has been two years since I left my home. Not a day goes by that I don't feel blessed by all they did for me. I am convinced that without renew and DVPI I would not be where I am today.