Amelia’s Story Part II – The Journey to Healing

Amelia immersed herself in the shelter’s programs. She worked closely with client advocates, joined a domestic violence support group, enrolled her children in youth groups, consulted with a legal advocate, and received care from a health advocate. Slowly, she began to heal. Her determination to lift herself and her children out of their dark past was evident in everything she did. As Amelia’s confidence grew, her children began to feel safe once more. Their smiles greeted us every time they came in for group sessions, a testament to their growing sense of security.

With the support of a client advocate and her own resolve, Amelia eventually found a place for her family. She shared the news with tears of joy, particularly moved by the simple act of choosing her own curtains. “I know it seems so small,” she said, “but for me, it means the world to choose how I decorate our little home without anyone putting me down or destroying what we’re building.” Amelia began volunteering at her children’s school and, through networking, secured a part-time job. She continued to participate in support groups and ensured her children received the care they needed. Determined to build a better future, Amelia enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) and computer literacy classes at a community college with her advocate’s help.

Amelia’s Story Part I – Finding Courage

Amelia, a 34-year-old mother of two, had endured 13 years of abuse at the hands of her husband. The abuse was relentless—physical, sexual, psychological, and financial. When her husband began directing his violence toward their 7 and 10-year-old children, Amelia knew she had to act. With her family’s support, she summoned the courage to leave. One day, while her husband was at work, Amelia packed up their belongings and fled. She called WomenShelter of Long Beach, desperate and afraid, but hopeful for a new beginning.

When Amelia arrived at the shelter, she was a picture of fear and confusion. She knew she had to escape, but was uncertain about her future. Her husband’s attempts to intimidate and manipulate her did not cease, even after she left. An advocate explained the services available and reassured her that help could be provided for up to a year. Despite her fear of what might happen after that time, Amelia took a brave step forward and embraced the support offered to her.

WomenShelter of Long Beach Names Kent Wallace-Meggs Executive Director

WOMENSHELTER OF LONG BEACH NAMES
KENT WALLACE-MEGGS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

A seasoned nonprofit leader, Wallace-Meggs brings more than 25 years of leadership to WSLB

Long Beach, CA (May 1, 2024) – The WomenShelter of Long Beach (WSLB) Board of Directors has announced that Kent Wallace-Meggs has been named Executive Director, effective immediately.

In this role, Wallace-Meggs will oversee a nine-person executive staff and guide WSLB as it implements multiple strategic growth initiatives, including fundraising, designed to enhance the services the organization offers to survivors of domestic violence.

“Kent’s extensive nonprofit experience has focused on creating environments where children, families and communities thrive. His professional and personal commitment to breaking cycles of violence and poverty perfectly align with WSLB’s mission,” said M. Lissette Flores, WSLB Board of Directors President. “Kent’s background in strengthening infrastructure and financial stability, while increasing organizational fund development and funding sources will serve WSLB well.”

“I am proud to join WSLB and excited to broaden opportunities, partnerships and conversations for this dynamic organization as it continues to play a leading role in providing a haven for those in our community impacted by domestic violence,” said Wallace-Megg. “I am looking forward to leading WSLB and working with the organization’s many dedicated employees and its diverse Board of Directors.”

WomenShelter of Long Beach is constantly advancing, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility, which makes it a stronger, more effective organization, and directly aligns with its mission to support survivors of domestic violence. The organization is actively building a community whose members have diverse cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences.

The mission of WSLB is to eliminate domestic violence through compassionate intervention, education and personal empowerment. Since 1977, WomenShelter of Long Beach has helped thousands of families overcome the trauma caused by domestic abuse.

WomenShelter Long Beach gets $850,000 in federal funding for transitional housing project – Press Telegram

The local nonprofit supports women and children who have survived domestic violence.

Source: WomenShelter Long Beach gets $850,000 in federal funding for transitional housing project – Press Telegrams

“Congresswoman Barragan deserves our gratitude for her instrumental role in obtaining $850,000 in Community Project Funding. This funding will be dedicated to acquiring and enhancing a Transitional Shelter for Survivors of domestic violence. Such a shelter will provide families with a safe haven for up to 18 months following their displacement from home as they continue with their recovery and integration into the community and for a life free of violence for their children. Thank you, Congresswoman Barragan, for believing in our mission and for your compassion to serve and support our community.”

In Memoriam: Sandi Iverson, a cherished member of the WSLB family.

“In loving memory of Sandi Iverson, a cherished member of the WSLB family. With heartfelt gratitude, we honor her unwavering support spanning many years, from Holiday Donation Programs to monthly contributions and countless fundraising events. Her kindness and generosity touched the lives of our staff members and, more importantly, the survivors of domestic violence. Sandi’s legacy will forever resonate within our hearts. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire us all.”

Donations to WSLB in Sandi’s memory can be made by visiting the following link.