Local Survivors Find Hope with New Homes This Holiday Season

As the holiday season unfolds, a heartwarming story emerges from DeKalb County, where families are finding new beginnings just in time for Christmas. According to 11Alive, Dwanda Singleton is among those who have recently traded uncertainty for hope, having moved into a new home after a harrowing experience with domestic violence.

Dwanda’s journey has been anything but easy. In just seven months, she faced the devastating loss of her mother, grandmother, and brother, all while enduring an abusive relationship. “When I went through so much pain, I felt lost,” Dwanda recalled. “I didn’t want to live like that anymore.” With the encouragement of her late mother’s words, she took a brave step and reached out for help by calling the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence hotline.

That call changed everything. The support she found there helped Dwanda reclaim her life, and she is now on the path to recovery. Amber Harris, chief development officer for the center, highlighted that in Georgia, at least one in four women will experience domestic violence, a number that may be significantly higher due to underreporting. The challenges are often compounded during the holidays, as many survivors find themselves isolated with their abusers.

Thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, around 30 families, including Dwanda’s, have moved into permanent homes just in time for the holidays. They also received essential household items through a special shopping event organized by the center, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported in their new spaces.

Dwanda is now adjusting to her newfound freedom and independence. “I feel like I’m finally getting my life back,” she shared with a smile. “This moment won’t define me; it will strengthen who I can become.”

For anyone in need of support, the Women’s Resource Center offers a 24/7 hotline at 404-688-9436. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, help is available.

Originally reported by 11Alive