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Abuse survivor needs gas for car, warm clothes, bikes for kids By Buffy Pollock Dec 14, 2022 12:45 AM A A Editor’s note: Light One Candle is an annual series sponsored by the Mail Tribune that focuses on an individual, group or organization who could use a helping hand during the holiday season. Once that need is filled, donations may be distributed to others in need. Rebuilding her life after an abusive and tumultuous past, a mother soon will have a place to call home with her three children. Working as a hotel housekeeper and living at Community Works’ Dunn House, where victims fleeing domestic violence can shelter temporarily as they rebuild their lives, the doting mother goes above and beyond each day to ensure her children are well-prepared for school. Although the woman works full time to provide for her family’s basic needs, there’s not much left for holiday gifts or even to set up the home they’ll soon move into. Barbara Johnson, executive director of Community Works Domestic & Sexual Violence Resource Center, said the young mother has “a light that warms up every room.” A perpetual smile and helpful nature belie this woman’s tremendous trauma and struggle to rebuild her life, Johnson said. Despite obstacles, she has always been strong for herself and her children. She attends Community Works’ support groups to shore up her strength and works with staff every day to bolster her emotional support and plan for her family’s future. One of the millions of Oregon women who has survived domestic violence, the 29-year-old, who Johnson describes as humble and proud, wished only for help with basic needs this holiday season. Gift cards to put gas in her car to transport the kids to school and herself to work would help conserve limited paychecks. Winter clothing for the family would be a blessing, including socks, shoes, pants, shirts and jackets. The mother wears a size large. Her 2-year-old daughter wears size 2T. The 7-year-old daughter wears size 8. The girls’ 13-year-old brother wears a medium in men’s clothing. “She would love to surprise her children with bicycles and helmets for an extra special treat as they begin their new life,” Johnson added. “(The family) will be moving out of the Dunn House shelter soon, and so household items to support her in this next step would be wonderful. Bedding for her new place in twin size, and kitchen appliances would be most appreciated. Toiletries, toilet paper and paper towels would be a great addition to start this new life for her family.” To reach Community Works, call 541-779-2393. Drop off items, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, at 2594 E. Barnett Road (suite C), Medford.