When it happened to me, "I felt used, abused, cheated, and just plain dirty. I felt alone and like it was my fault." I felt better "when I came to Owens House. Talking really does help." My advice (to other teens) is "do not give up. It only gives your abuser the win. Do not stop fighting." I understand what you're going through is really hard "because it sucks. The pain will always be there but it will fade and some days are better than others but it does get better. You just have to find your strength in your struggle-you can do it."
You can help teens like "Cassie." Owens House is one of thirty-five, child-friendly, trauma focused advocacy centers across Alabama. We provide services to help children and families impacted by child sexual and physical abuse, giving them hope and leading them toward healing and justice. Specialized fact-finding child interviews, trauma-informed therapy, and in-school personal body safety education are just a few of the services we provide to over 10,000 children throughout Shelby County. Unfortunately, we intervene in 350-400 new cases of child abuse annually. Fortunately, we have a team of professionals and the community who help us fight this battle. Won't you join in today? Donating $25 will help provide snacks, coping items, and comfort for kids who visit Owens House. $50 will help provide advocacy and support to shocked, hurting caregivers and $100 will fund a therapy session for a traumatized child. You may not be a runner but you can step up for children in your community today. Thank you for your generous support.
