Mission Statement:
The mission of Stepping Stones
for women of Domestic Violence, N.F.P., a Christian-based
organization, is to empower
women who are victims of
domestic violence to develop
financial and emotional
independence by providing them
with a safe, nurturing environment.
Are You a Victim?
For immediate abuse care, call:
Family Shelter Service
HOTLINE:
(630) 469-5650
www.familyshelterservice.org
for Victims of Domestic Violence
All services are free of charge & confidential.
What is Stepping Stones?
Due to the overwhelming need in DuPage County for transitional housing for women of domestic violence, Stepping Stones was formed in 2003.
Stepping Stones’ intent is to provide emotional support, financial assistance, a safe environment and career opportunities to a family. Stepping Stones is grounded in Christ’s love for His neighbor and through a Christian outreach, guides and assists clients toward a productive life.
Stepping Stones is privileged to partner with Bridge Communities, Inc., a private, non-profit housing and mentoring program in DuPage County. The Bridge program provides homeless families with basic housing, case management, life skills, mentor training, job readiness preparation, and after school tutoring.
Once the client has been chosen, an apartment is selected by Bridge Communities; Stepping Stones then has the task of furnishing the apartment in preparation for receiving the abused woman and her children. We seek volunteer mentors who will attend the training program at Bridge to acquire the skills necessary to guide and mentor our clients. Food, clothing and other resources are donated through Stepping Stones.
For the next 18-24 months, Stepping Stones is responsible for the well-being and nurturing of our clients and Bridge continues to provide counseling services and case management to help the women take control of their lives. It is an upstream battle for survivors of physical, mental or verbal abuse. Stepping Stones, assisted by Bridge Communities, will help provide a pathway of safety and empowerment that will assure a better future for women of domestic violence.
How Can Stepping Stones Help?
1. Abused women, many with children, often seek protection, security and shelter in a "safe house." The family may move into such a facility temporarily before advancing to transitional housing and a program that helps them start a new life.
2. Due to the overwhelming need for transitional housing, Stepping Stones was formed.
3. Stepping Stones is privileged to partner with Bridge Communities, Inc., a private, non-profit housing and mentoring program in DuPage County. The Bridge program provides homeless families with basic housing, after school tutoring and job readiness training. There are social workers and mentors to provide life skills education.
4. Together we can help abused women and their children from many areas overcome the barriers and break the cycle of domestic violence, giving them a chance to:
• Heal
• Meet Caring Individuals
• Gain Emotional Support
• Learn to Manage Finances
• Develop Independence
• See What Love Can Accomplish