Statistics show that every nine seconds a woman is assaulted in the United States. Four women are killed by domestic violence each day. This equals 1,460 women a year killed by their husbands or boyfriends. This is 1,460 women whose children are left without a mother. One out of four Christian women report being victims of domestic violence.

The Network House strives to help women and children break the cycle of violence through free Christian based classes in Bible, Finance, Computer, Parenting, and Domestic Violence Prevention classes. In addition, Network also provides free Christian counseling, court advocacy, housing, food, clothing, as well as collecting furniture and household items to furnish their own housing.

The residents are required to work a job while they are in the program, attend classes, and help with chores in the home. The Network program is four months. We are the only long term Christian centered program in the area for women and children. It has been proven that a woman must have more time than 30 days, which is what the vast majority of shelters allow for. Time is needed for spiritual, emotional and physical healing. In order to come into the program women go through an interview process and we accept applications from all over the area and throughout the state. Our goal is to equip women with Christ centered skills and guidance to help them break the chains of domestic violence in their lives and their children lives, and to help them lead healthy productive Christian lives.

Since Network is a Christian based program, we receive no federal or state funding and must rely on the support of individuals, churches, and other private organizations in order to maintain these life saving services. We are presently finding a real immediate need for financial assistance. Since the 9-11 tragedy our funding has been drastically affected, but unfortunately the need for our services has not decreased. We are also in need of volunteers to help with classes, childcare during classes, yard maintenance, and people with trucks and those that could help move donations. Day volunteers are also welcome to help with clerical duties. We always have a waiting list for those wanting to get into the program. Since we are the only long-term program we get many referrals for women needing long term help.

Network is also involved in the community to a great extent. As Director, Carol Deans is available to go to churches, organizations, and civic groups and speak on the ministry of Network. Mrs. Deans also does education programs for any church or organization in teaching domestic violence education. To have Mrs. Deans come to your church or organization call 434-386-3044 or e-mail networkhouse@lynchburg.net

As a survivor of domestic violence myself, I understand that we must keep Christian based programs operating. I know that I would not be where I am today if a shelter had not been available for and my children and me. Every woman and child deserves the right to an abundant, safe, happy Christ-centered life, and Network endeavors to show the love of Christ and the way to both eternal life and to an abundant life on earth.

By your contribution you can help to be a part of saving a life, that had no hope and showing them the way to Christian. Thank you and God Bless.

Carol Deans
President & Executive Director, Network For Women In Crisis