Squana’s Story

The decision to leave is never simple, but staying had become impossible. After being stalked by her abuser in Chicago, Squana made the courageous choice to flee to a domestic violence shelter in early summer, bringing her three children to safety. For two and a half months, they lived in shelter while Squana planned her next steps, determined to build a life where fear didn't dictate every decision. 

Every day, she took Uber to work and to transport her youngest son to daycare. She was working toward stability, but the security deposit for a new apartment stood between her family and the fresh start they desperately needed.

LEAVEN provided the security deposit assistance that opened the door to Squana's new beginning. Beyond the apartment, she needed winter coats for her children, hygiene products, furniture to make their new place a home, and food to fill their cupboards. LEAVEN provided hygiene products and bus passes, providing referrals to St. Joseph Food Pantry and Community Clothes Closet to meet her other needs. Each item represented not just a material need, but a piece of the normal, stable life she was rebuilding for her family.

Squana's journey reflects the reality that escaping abuse is not a single moment but a long road requiring tremendous courage and community support. Squana is writing a new story—one where she and her children are not defined by what they fled, but by the resilient, hopeful life they're creating together. For 40 years, LEAVEN has stood beside survivors just like Squana with community and support, so no one has to rebuild alone.