Keeshia and Ben

Mom, Keeshia, was referred to Providence House from her therapist through OhioGuidestone. She had recently left a cult five months earlier, was experiencing domestic violence from her son’s father, and was trying to transition herself and her two children

Mom, Keeshia, was referred to Providence House from her therapist through OhioGuidestone. She had recently left a cult five months earlier, was experiencing domestic violence from her son’s father, and was trying to transition herself and her two children to independent, safe, and “normal” life. Her younger daughter was safe staying with her father, so only her four-year-old son Ben required Providence House services.

Ben received emergency shelter when there was a risk of domestic violence. All his basic needs were met, and Keeshia was able to transport him to and from his daycare twice weekly in order to maintain some consistency for Ben. He participated in yoga classes, as well as music and art therapy classes on-site.

While engaged with services, Keeshia secured employment with two companies as an STNA and worked a lot in order to save money. The threat of domestic violence went away, so instead of working to move to new housing, she focused on saving money to pay off overdue utility bills. The Providence House parent fund was able to pay over $500 for her gas bill when she got a shutoff notice. Keeshia also did not have food stamps at the beginning of the service period, but received benefits before discharging. She completed trauma services and a referral for early childhood mental health services for Ben was completed. Keeshia continued to engage with her mental health therapist throughout the service period, which was helpful as her mental health diagnoses and cult experience were significantly impacting her life and overall mental health. Once she ensured her housing was safe, Keeshia was able to bring Ben home for a home visit when she took a day off at work.

The family reunited at the end of the service period with all goals either met or pending. Keeshia is enrolled in Aftercare for a year, and plans to attend the family holiday party to assist with Christmas presents for Ben.