Many women just need their fears and experiences to be validated,' Cason-Card said. I help give them options. We help them come up with a safety plan so they'll know what needs to be done if they have to leave their home suddenly. When a battered woman decides it's time to leave, the Domestic Violence Program is there to help. Although there are no shelters in Goochland or Powhatan, women are taken to shelters located in neighboring counties.
Shelters offer women and children safety and guidance for the future.
The rural nature of the area presents other difficulties as well. In a rural community, there are few resources such as jobs, rental properties, etc. Women have to relocate to another area. However, as Cason-Card continues to reach out to the two communities, she feels the program will gain acceptance. I feel good about the program.