March 22, 2025
Dear Survivor,
If you’re here, it means you’ve already taken a brave and empowering step toward creating a safer, healthier life for yourself. Whether you’re gathering information, making plans, or leaving behind a harmful situation, know that you are not alone. This newsletter is designed to provide you with practical tools, compassionate guidance, and access to resources that can support you on your path to freedom.
What to Pack in an Emergency Bag When You’re Planning to Leave
Leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time, which makes preparation important. Having an emergency bag ready can help you leave safely and avoid returning to a dangerous environment for forgotten essentials. Here’s a list of items to consider packing.
Document Essentials
- ID (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate)
- Social Security cards for you and your children
- Any legal documents (restraining orders, custody papers, medical records)
- Financial documents (bank account details, insurance information, tax returns)
Financial Items
- Cash and/or credit/debit cards (if you’ve been able to save)
- Checkbook if applicable
Clothing and Personal Items
- A few changes of clothes for yourself and your kids if applicable
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, menstrual products, etc.)
- Prescription medications
Valuable Keepsakes
- Small meaningful objects or photos (if safe and practical to take)
Communication Tools
- A prepaid phone (if your current phone is monitored)
- Emergency contact numbers written down
Safety Tools
- Keys (house, car, and any important locations)
- Addresses and contacts for local shelters or trusted individuals
Once your bag is ready, store it somewhere safe and accessible. This could be with a trusted friend, in your car (if safe), or a secure hiding place. Preparing doesn’t mean you have to act right away, but you’ll feel more ready when the time comes.
Finding Your Road to Recovery
Planning your escape and rebuilding your life is a process, and no one expects you to do it all on your own. That’s where the Recovery Roadmap comes in. This resource is designed to guide you through the next steps, providing you with tools to heal emotionally, find empowerment, and move forward.
Click here to explore the Recovery Roadmap and take your first steps toward a new chapter in your life.
You Are Deserving of Support
Remember, there are people and programs ready to help every step of the way. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number. For confidential help, you can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
Don’t hesitate to lean on these resources. You deserve to feel safe, empowered, and free.
With care and solidarity,
P.S. Forward this newsletter to someone you think may need it. Together, we can foster community and hope.