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The physical spaces where domestic violence survivors live play a crucial role in their recovery and well-being.
Safe, secure, and supportive environments foster a sense of stability and autonomy that can significantly enhance a survivor’s ability to rebuild her life.
Housing that offers privacy, protection from abusers, and access to necessary resources like counseling and support networks helps survivors regain their confidence and independence.
Moreover, well-designed spaces that promote safety and comfort can contribute to emotional healing, providing a sanctuary where survivors can start to overcome the trauma they’ve experienced and envision a hopeful future.
Bethany House opened its first location on January 1, 1984, at the rectory of Immaculate Conception on Western Ave. Today, that property serves as the location for La Posada family shelter, a ministry of Catholic Charities.
Sr. Rose Therese Lange, pictured right welcoming a guest at the door, lived on-site alongside participants and served as House Coordinator.
Scroll through the gallery below to see the humble beginnings of the original shared kitchen and living room.
In 1990, Bethany House relocated to a new building – a closed convent at St. Hedgwigs.
While this location offered additional square footage to help more families escape domestic violence, common spaces such as the kitchen, living rooms and bathrooms were shared and residents didn’t have much privacy.
In 2011, Bethany House moved into its current facility, a building where each survivor has their own apartment with their children.
Buildings don’t take care of themselves and Bethany House has long been blessed with volunteers who have helped maintain and upgrade the spaces where our survivors start rebuilding their lives.
Victor Matuszewski, pictured below left, is one such volunteer. His service, dating back to Sr. Faith’s days as Executive Director in the 1990s, was invaluable as he helped with household projects and repairs.
Tom Williams, pictured below right, has also been instrumental when it comes to our buildings, fixing what’s broken and thinking ahead to extend the functional life of all parts of the building. Tom joined the Bethany House team full-time in 2009 as House Manager, a role he still serves in today.
Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio
Member of the Sylvania Franciscan Ministries