Anna Marie's Emergency Shelter

Teens (and Tweens) are experiencing disturbing levels of violence in their dating relationships, but only half recognize the warning signs of a dangerous relationship. Young women at that age often think jealousy is an indicator of how much their boyfriend really loves them.

Molly was only 16 when she started dating the person who abused her. She was “in love” and never believed he would hurt her. The first time her boyfriend hit her, he convinced her it was an accident and would never happen again. Over the next three years it did happen again – many times. Molly was punched in the face for refusing to have sex with him, and again, because she wanted to go out with her friends. When Molly tried to end the relationship her boyfriend told her he would kill himself.

Molly finally got the courage to leave and came to Anna Marie’s following an incident where he choked her.

Anna Marie’s emergency shelter was able to assist Molly because of support from members of our community. Molly still comes to Anna Marie’s support groups. She has become an incredible young woman. She shares her story with others and frequently tells moms to teach their daughters about how to recognize the signs of dating abuse.

With your help we can continue to provide life-changing services that may result in a brighter holiday season for the women and children we serve.

To learn more about Anna Marie's Alliance, please visit www.annamaries.org.