Layla* first accessed IFSSA in 2011, when she ran away from her
home because of domestic violence. Layla sat at the IFSSA office
with her two daughters, filled with fear, worry and carrying
years of trauma. She had nowhere to turn.
Her husband and his family were searching for her, demanding
that she come back home. But, Layla refused. For 10 years, she
was financially, spiritually, mentally, sexually and verbally abused
by her husband and her in-laws.
Working overtime, IFSSA’s outreach team secured a safe house
shelter for Layla and her daughters. Within a short period of
time, the outreach team was able to secure a transfer for her
to move to second-stage housing. The outreach staff provided Layla and her daughters with emotional support, resources for
counselling, monthly food hampers, and legal support so that
she can file for divorce and tackle the court system.
Through all of these years of paperwork, court sessions and
counselling appointments, IFSSA’s outreach staff stood with
Layla through the challenges and the difficulties. The outreach
team was there for Layla when her separation from her husband
was finalized. The outreach team was there for Layla when she
searched for work. The outreach team was there for Layla when
she was in need of emotional support and encouragement.
Now, Layla and her two daughters are living independently in
their own home. Layla is attending school, working, and has even
started volunteering her time. When we asked Layla how she can
best describe life now, she smiled and said “it’s peaceful.”