Bethany’s Case Story

Bethany*, a mother and soon-to-be mom of two, was recently extricated from a domestic violence situation, leaving her ex-partner in jail. Unbeknownst to her, they were behind on rent payments, accumulating a debt of $2,368.94. Working at an Exxon Station and expecting a child in November, Bethany was in dire need of financial assistance and baby items. Despite her landlord’s willingness to work with her, the looming debt and the impending arrival of her baby added to her distress. As Bethany herself said, “I’m gonna get out of this. I’m going to remain strong. Hoping for a miracle right now.”

How This Situation Impacted Bethany and Her Family

The financial strain and the emotional turmoil from the domestic violence incident left Bethany unable to fully devote her time and energy to helping her 10-year-old son heal. Her concern also extended to the potential impact of stress on her unborn child. The constant worry about the overdue rent hindered her ability to focus on caring for her children and pursuing career opportunities, further exacerbating her situation.

Footbridge’s Timely Support

In response to Bethany’s urgent need, Footbridge stepped in to provide the necessary financial assistance. The organization promptly sent the full amount of the overdue rent payments directly to Bethany’s landlord, preventing her and her family’s eviction from their home. This timely intervention allowed Bethany to retain her housing, ensuring a stable environment for her and her children.

A Call To Action 

Bethany’s story is unfortunately not unique. Between 21 and 60% of victims of intimate partner violence lose their jobs due to circumstances arising from the abuse, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive support for survivors. Additionally, nearly 10% of all children are exposed to intimate partner violence and the vast majority end up as direct witnesses to the abuse. Footbridge’s assistance to Bethany exemplifies the tangible impact that timely financial help can have, offering not just monetary aid but also emotional relief and the opportunity for a fresh start.

By sharing Bethany’s story, we aim to shed light on the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors and emphasize the essential role of community support in aiding those in need.

* this name has been changed for privacy reasons