Success Stories

Sima, a 45 year-old single mother escaped a severe domestic violence situation in which her husband abused her emotionally, physically and sexually for four years. Last February, she escaped to her friend's house in the middle of the night with her daughter.

Before moving to the United States, Sima lived in Iran where she met her husband five years ago while visiting his family. He proposed to her during his trip, promising all the benefits of a future in America to her and her daughter. Sima explained that he "seemed like a very kind man," and being a widowed mother, she thought it would be an excellent opportunity for her 13 year-old daughter and for herself. So they moved to Seattle shortly after getting married, leaving behind friends and family.

However, things changed upon arriving in the U.S. Her husband became very controlling and manipulative, telling her she couldn't leave the house or "immigration would find her and deport her." New to the country and unable to speak fluent English, Sima took these threats very seriously, and felt "like a prisoner in her own home." Finally she gained the courage to leave.

By the time Sima and her daughter came to Wellspring Family Services, they were staying in a one-bedroom apartment with Sima's only friend in Seattle. Sima was unemployed and had no income of any kind. She was extremely depressed and suffering from post-traumatic stress from her husband's abuse. In addition, her immigration status was in jeopardy because her husband was threatening to withdraw her application, and she could not afford a lawyer.

At Wellspring Family Services she received counseling to help her cope with the trauma and depression, and was also connected to a lawyer at the Northwest Immigration Rights Project. Once she gained more confidence and control of her situation, Sima began applying for jobs in accounting, the same field she worked in in Iran. With some income, Wellspring Family Services helped her find an apartment that was affordable and near her work.

Another issue concerning Sima was her daughter's inability to pay college tuition. Because financial aid was based on the income of the ex-husband, Sima's daughter was ineligible. The case manager contacted the college, explained the situation and made a hardship request for more aid. The request was approved, and Sima's daughter was able to stay in college.

Sima often expresses how much Wellspring Family Services helped her turn her life around and create a new beginning for both herself and her daughter.