Together, We Find a Way.

My name is JC, and I am a survivor of domestic violence. My journey has been fraught with pain, fear, and trauma, but it has also instilled in me a deep determination to help others who are trapped in similar situations. JC’s Escape Route is a project born out of my own harrowing experiences and the pressing need for immediate, effective support for victims of domestic violence. We aim to turn victims into survivors, providing them with the tools and support they need to rebuild their lives.

For 11 years, I was in an abusive relationship with a man who subjected me and his three sons to mental, verbal, and emotional abuse. He also exerted financial control over me. On January 2, 2015, I made the regrettable decision to marry him, believing his promises that things would change. Instead, they only worsened.

On Valentine's Day of that year, he physically assaulted me for the first time. As a strong, trained boxer, he was far more powerful than I was. Despite knowing the adage that "if they do it once, they'll do it again," I stayed. My breaking point came on the early morning of July 23rd, when he attacked me with a terrifying intensity, leaving me no doubt that he intended to kill me. The assault lasted over four hours, during which I was subjected to relentless physical and sexual violence. Afterward, he fell asleep, giving me a brief window to escape.

I fled to a nearby carryout, where the owner locked the door and called for help. While I was in the hospital recovering from my injuries, he drained my bank accounts and took everything from our home, including our beloved Pitbull, Memphis. This act of control was designed to leave me with nothing, forcing me to return to him.  Fortunately, with the support of family and friends, I was able to escape. 

 My experience is not unique. Many victims of domestic violence face similar situations, often without a support system. Shelters in Toledo, Ohio, and across the country often have long waiting lists, leaving women and children with no safe place to go. The sad reality is that many victims return to their abusers because they have no other option.

In Ohio, 38% of women experience domestic violence, and in the year ending June 30, 2023, there were 112 domestic violence fatalities, including 22 children. These numbers highlight the urgent need for effective intervention and support.

 We aim to provide immediate assistance to victims of domestic violence, helping them escape dangerous situations and start anew. With your generous donations, we will:

1. Transport: Provide safe transportation for victims to a temporary, safe location.
2. Temporary Shelter: Use hotels and Airbnb’s as temporary shelters while we work on finding a permanent location, such as an old hotel or apartment building.
3. Basic Needs: Supply victims with phones, clothing, food, and other essentials.
4. Employment and Education: Assist in finding jobs and providing classes for earning a GED if needed.
5. Permanent Housing: Work towards securing permanent, safe housing for survivors.

 You can make a profound difference in the lives of domestic violence victims. Here are some ways you can help:

1. Share Our Story: Spread the word about JC’s Escape Route through social media, email, and word of mouth. The more people know about our mission, the more support we can gather.
2. Monthly Contributions: Consider setting up a recurring donation. Consistent funding helps us plan and provide continuous support to those in need.
3. Fundraising Events: Host or participate in fundraising events. Whether it’s a bake sale, a charity run, or an online auction, every bit helps.
4. Corporate Sponsorships: Reach out to businesses and encourage them to support our cause through donations, matching gift programs, or sponsorship.
5. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to help with our operations. Whether it’s driving, organizing supplies, or providing professional services, your help is invaluable.

 Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless women and children who are trapped in abusive situations. Your support can turn victims into survivors, providing them with a chance to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. Please donate today and help JC’s Escape Route become a beacon of hope and safety for those in need.