Trigger Warning: This post discusses domestic violence and its impacts on families, which may be distressing for some readers.

Note: Glimmer Austin is matching all donations up to $25,000 to our Safe and Secure Spaces campaign during the month of October.
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As we enter October, we reflect on Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to raise our voices and shed light on the profound impact domestic violence has on families, particularly mothers and their children.

The economic toll of domestic violence is staggering. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the costs associated with intimate partner violence reach approximately $3.6 trillion, covering medical services, lost productivity, and criminal justice expenses. Each woman affected bears an average lifetime cost of $103,767 due to intimate partner violence (CDC).

At Saint Louise House, we see the costs of domestic violence every day in the lives of the women and children we serve. Approximately 70% of the families experiencing homelessness who come to Saint Louise House have faced the additional trauma of domestic violence.

Through thoughtful engagement with our Residence Advisory Council and individual meetings with clients, we have learned that a sense of safety is a top priority for families. We recognize that increasing security measures can sometimes conflict with fostering a welcoming community. For example, frequent changes to gate codes can enhance security but may also create feelings of insecurity, while higher fences can signal danger rather than safety.

In response, Saint Louise House is committed to investing in security at both of our properties. Our approach prioritizes creating a safe, welcoming, and trauma-informed environment for families.

Children are deeply affected by domestic violence, with approximately 15.5 million children living in homes where domestic violence occurs (Institute for Women’s Policy Research). The experiences of these children can lead to a cycle of trauma, perpetuating patterns of abuse and instability that can affect generations.

As we support mothers and their children, our strengths-based case management approach empowers women to recognize their resilience and accomplishments, particularly in navigating the complexities of leaving an abusive situation and keeping their families together.

One mother poignantly shared, “The care that the Saint Louise House staff showed me during my time there was instrumental in restoring my sense of self-worth and dignity that had been damaged by domestic abuse. I felt like I was safe, and that someone actually cared to help me get back on track.”

Another mother noted, “The kids felt very calm and happy during their time here. They were in a safe and secure home and away from violence, which was important.” A youth resident echoed this sentiment, saying, “For once in my life, I had something I hadn’t had for a long time, which was a constant. Saint Louise House gave that to me and my family—a place where they can call home and know that they can be safe with a roof over their heads. Saint Louise House changed my family’s life for the better.”

This October, as we shine a light on domestic violence, we invite you to join us in providing safe and secure spaces for the women and children of Saint Louise House to stabilize, heal from the wounds of homelessness and domestic violence, and develop economic security.

Glimmer Austin has generously offered to match financial contributions to Safe & Secure Spaces up to $25,000. This is a unique opportunity to double your impact on the lives of families overcoming these challenges. Together, we can make a meaningful difference by offering hope and security to those who need it most.

Thank you for joining us in this vital mission during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.