Florence, a local senior, connected with A Safe Place through a community referral after experiencing decades of emotional, physical, and financial abuse within her 42-year marriage. As her husband’s behaviour escalated following retirement, Florence found herself living under constant control, criticism, and fear.
The abuse had become so normalized that she struggled to imagine a different life, yet she knew she could no longer continue living with the ongoing violence and intimidation.
Working closely with an Outreach Worker, Florence began to recognize the cycle of abuse she had endured for years and explored options for safely leaving the relationship. Through safety planning, legal information, emotional support, and advocacy, she developed a plan to protect herself and prepare for an emergency departure. She assembled essential documents, medications, and personal belongings and identified supports she could access if she needed to leave quickly.
When the abuse continued to escalate, Florence followed through with her safety plan and left her home safely. She was welcomed into shelter and later transitioned to a seniors’ safe housing program before securing independent living accommodations.
Today, Florence is rebuilding her life free from abuse. With ongoing community supports and a growing network of connections, she is pursuing her goal of living independently, safely, and with renewed hope for the future.