How the Right Approach to Self Care Healed a Trauma Survivor

As we use this week to highlight the importance of trauma recovery, we are also recognizing those who have had their own journey of self care. One of our moms has lived through a traumatic event in her life and her way of taking care of herself and her child is one of strength and faith.

Before coming to the Virginia Women and Family Support Center (VAWFSC), Briana was in an abusive relationship. She didn’t want her daughter to grow up in that kind of environment, so she fled. She stayed with family for a couple days, slept on couches, and hotel hopped. Through this time, her aunt was her rock; she called everyday to check in and pray. While hotel hopping, she recalls “I met so many people who said they saw the light in me and we held prayer sessions”. She later came to the VAWFSC to seek a long-term place to live until she could recover. By then she was pregnant with her second child.  She was quickly surrounded by women who were going through similar situations as her, and found comfort and safety. When speaking about her time at VAWFSC, Briana said “I was able to find a support system with the other women who live here. We were able to share our stories and comfort one another. This organization has really given me hope finding my way, and safety- not just for me, but for my kids as well”.

It is difficult to recover from a traumatic experience. While it can be a long process of ups and downs, choosing the right environment, surrounding yourself with people who understand and want to help you, and staying positive can lead you in the right direction towards inner peace.

At the Virginia Women and Family Support Center, we provide that support by giving homeless, pregnant moms and their children a place to stay. We hold classes to help them take control of their maternal health, and connect them to therapists whenever it’s necessary. If you made your way here, it is not by coincidence. Our program is primarily funded by individuals like yourself who have a passion for helping women and families in need. We need you to help make a difference in these families' lives by becoming a Cycle Breaker and donating as little as $20 a month, or attending our annual fundraising gala on Saturday September 6, 2025.