Forgiveness and Rediscovering Self

Once again Ms. Bettye Ferguson used her unique talents to bring home a very touchy subject...Forgiveness. But before this subject was tackled Ms. Ferguson encouraged the ladies to participate by sharing of themselves. Said Ms. Ferguson later, "It was plain to see the pain that was still a part of their lives." Recognizing the importance of forgiveness in the healing process Ms. Ferguson has agreed to conduct this session again at a later date.

FSFW realizes that many times women must take baby steps on the road to healing. For this reason the program was originally designed for those women that had been out of an abusive situation for 90 days or more. In 2007 FSFW began working with Safe Haven Transitional thus bringing the program to women in varying stages of healing.

It's important for women to actively participate in order to reap the maximum benefits of the various volunteers and facilitators sharing their knowledge, encouragement and support. Kudos to all for moving beyond where they are to reach further than they've ever reached before.
Ms. Ferguson shared with those in attendance that trust can be earned again and that they were in an environment that was safe and ripe for their healing to begin.

For homework all were assigned the task of writing 3 major things each needed to work on in the area of forgiveness, starting with self. It is only then will the women be able to rediscover their true selves.

Budgeting & Understanding Credit

On January 17th the women of Safe Haven were introduced to the importance of budgeting and credit management. Janice Pettigrew shared with the women her own version of a budget and provided tips that have worked for her.

Mrs. Pettigrew explained that regardless of the amount of money the women earned it was important for them to begin to pay themselves first. During the hour and a half session the women had an opportunity to begin to develop their own personal budget plan. This planning went hand in hand with the previous session in which goal setting was discussed.

Before the evening was over a number of the ladies had realistic goals and how to achieve them. FSFW will continue to follow-up on this area of the program and provide encoragement and advice as needed.

Making a Fresh Start!!

Today I make a Fresh Start in life

Today is a new day of promise. I accept it, give thanks for it, and act on the God-given opportunities I am offered. Yesterday is gone, and with it all that challenged me has receded into nothingness. My trust in God takes wings as I explore a day that is filled with wonder. I am confident that whatever I decide to do will bless me and bless others through me.

God is giving me a Fresh Start! Another chance to start anew on a goal, a job, a relationship of longstanding or one that is just beginning to take shape. Thanks to God, this day offers me even more love, life and understanding than I have ever before known.
…….Author Unknown

Setting New Year Goals!!

What a perfect start to a new year of promise and new beginnings! Once again Janice Pettigrew and LaQuita Heard-Nortey helped the women at Safe Haven Transitional jumpstart the new year. " We are so excited to be a part of your growth and are encouraged by your determination to not be defined by your current ciscumstances", said Mrs. Pettigrew to all in attendance.

FSFW is excited about the opportunity to once again partner with Safe Haven to enhance their services to the women in need. Domestic violence doesn't take a holiday so it's important to continue to offer services, encouragement and support to the victims and their families. FSFW is proud of the opportunity to do its part to inspire and empower others.