Finding Renewed Hope & Healing : Cioza’s Story
With your help, we continue to support many resilient individuals and families who face incredible challenges. One such woman is Cioza, a domestic violence abuse survivor, who with her 3 children, found renewed hope and healing through the intervention of Gate of Hope.
Feeling isolated and trapped in an abusive relationship , Cioza could not bear the pain of abuse anymore. The emotional and physical strain had affected her mental well-being, and she felt herself losing control. Seeking a way out, she was connected with Dr. Pauline Mukeshimana, director who stepped in with compassion and guidance.
When she connected with Gate of Hope, Cioza was experiencing high levels of anxiety and stress. Her self-worth had been eroded and she was experiencing deep emotional exhaustion. She had believed that things would improve after they were resettled in the US, but her husband’s abuse intensified as they were rebuilding their lives. In a conversation with Pauline, Cioza said “ I am losing myself, I can’t take this anymore. ” When Pauline asked what she wanted to do, Cioza answered that she wanted to find a new place for her and her children.
Gate of Hope worked with Cioza helping her create an exit plan to ensure her safety and that of her children and a plan for the way forward. Through our community partners, we secured a home for her and her children, covering the rent and utilities for three months. Beyond securing shelter, we also provided her with counseling, other critical support to help her rebuild her life and assisted her in finding a job. Most importantly, we empowered Cioza to regain her confidence and control over her life. She continues to receive counseling to help process her trauma and is on her journey towards total healing and stability. Cioza now has a strong network of support, is able to provide a safe environment for her children and has renewed hope for a better future.
As a refugee, Cioza said she is thankful to have found a support system of people who identified with her cultural background and spoke Kinyarwanda, her native language. Because of this, she was able to freely express her fears and needs, and felt that she was understood and accepted without judgment. Cioza said that Gate of Hope gave her courage to fight for a better future and empowered her to heal and rebuild.
To our incredible donors and supporters, thank you for being the backbone of this journey. Your support made it possible for Cioza and her children to find safety, hope, and a fresh start. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact that compassionate and community support can have on a person’s life.
