Erica was the target of DV: Help her move to safety

Erica Asselin, after ending the cycle of violence by ending a relationship, was attacked by her ex-partner in her own home.  Erica suffered from a severe concussion and numerous bruises.  She was very fortunate to not sustain any permanent damage.  Since the attack, Erica has abandoned her home and is living in a non-disclosed location fearing for her own safety and that of her children.  She has decided that the best course of action is for her to leave Western MA. We are very saddened by the necessity for her to move and yet, we MUST ensure Erica's safety.

Both through her work at Fresh Start in Holyoke and her commitment to MotherWoman, Erica Asselin has given to our community in ways too numerous to count.  We are grateful for everything Erica has done for mothers throughout the region.  She has spoken about her story and experiences honestly and has inspired all of us in our work with women and children.  She has showed us that change is possible and that for women who have suffered trauma, addiction and domestic violence -- there is hope.  Many of us have watched Erica personally as she has transformed her life, ending a cycle of violence that began in her childhood and giving her children a pathway out of the darkness.  

The sad reality though, is that while Erica has ended the cycle of addictions and violence in her own life, her ex-partner continues the cycle and has put her and her children's lives in danger.  She needs to move out of our region for safety.  And she is extremely blessed. She has been offered a wonderful job  with an organization that will maximize her talents to inspire women and help them transform their lives the way she has tranformed her own.  She has found a new home and even located childcare.  Now all she needs is to raise the money to pay for the new apartment -- first, last and security -- and to pay for her moving expenses.  She needs our help to raise the $5000 to pay these expenses so that she can start her new life and finally end the cycle of violence for herself and her family.  Please join us in supporting this amazing, inspring woman to have what we all deserve -- basic safety.  

Please consider giving a generous gift to Erica.  If you can give $30 or more it will help Erica and her children make the move to safety.  

Thank you for your generosity.