PONTIAC -- Ronald McDonald House Charities has extended a helping hand of fun to the over 250 children who each year call HAVEN’s shelter their temporary home. Their recent grant of more than $6,000 will help HAVEN provide short-term respite to children who are often traumatized after escaping a violent and dangerous situation.
Professionals at HAVEN and in the industry agree that the consequences of abuse on children are both immediate and long-term: School-age children who experience or witness violence exhibit a range of problem behaviors including depression, anxiety and violence towards peers.
HAVEN’s Residential Program for Domestic Violence Victims makes it possible for women and children to escape from violence. During their stay abused adults and children are provided a safe and supportive environment, professional resources, and the time and information to make crucial decisions about their lives, their safety, their children and their future.
In addition to formal therapy HAVEN’s staff provide social and recreational activities for the young residents including art therapy and arts-and-crafts projects, as well as field trips to destinations including the Detroit Science Center and Detroit Institute of Arts, and recreational opportunities include bowling and professional sporting events. Even a trip to visit Santa at a nearby mall can alleviate some of the day-to-day stress associated with both the abuse and the daily challenges of living in a residential shelter.
HAVEN has been working towards eliminating domestic violence and sexual assault by building violence-free communities one family at a time for more than 35 years. Giving hope a real voice, the nationally recognized not-for-profit organization offers treatment and prevention services, as well as educational programs, across Oakland County and the surrounding communities.
For more information about HAVEN and its programs and services, visit haven-oakland.org or call (248) 334-1284.
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