Hi everyone, Dr. Christ-Lee Lizaire-Ganthier here. As a Chaplain at Pelagie Foundation Ltd, I spend a lot of time talking to women and families who feel like the world has closed its doors on them. If you are reading this and you are currently in a situation where home doesn't feel like a sanctuary, I want you to know something right now: Your story isn't over, and you are not alone.
Systemic barriers often make survivors feel like they are trapped: not just by a person, but by paperwork, credit scores, and a lack of resources. At Pelagie Foundation Ltd, we are on a mission to prove otherwise. We believe that everyone: especially our veterans, seniors, and women facing domestic violence: deserves a safe place to rest their heads and a community that treats them with dignity.
In this week’s impact update, I’m going to break down how domestic violence housing assistance works in under three minutes, share what our team has been up to, and show you how we can walk this path together.
The 3-Minute Guide: How Housing Assistance Works
When you are in a crisis, the last thing you want to do is read a 50-page manual. Here is the "fast-track" version of what you need to know about housing rights and resources:
- The Shield (VAWA): The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law that protects you if you are living in (or applying for) HUD-subsidized housing. It means you cannot be denied housing or evicted just because you are a survivor. Even if you have a spotty credit history or a criminal record related to the abuse, the law is on your side.
- The Voucher (EHV): Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) are specifically designed for people fleeing domestic violence or experiencing homelessness. These are rental subsidies that help you pay for a place in the private market.
- The Self-Certification: You don’t need a mountain of police reports to prove your situation. You can use HUD Form 5382 to self-certify. This makes the process much more accessible and less re-traumatizing.
- The Entry Point: You usually can’t apply for these vouchers directly at a housing office. You need to connect with a local Continuum of Care (CoC) or a victim service provider: like us here at Pelagie Foundation Ltd.
Knowing Your Rights: You Are Not Your Past
One of the biggest hurdles we see is the "narrative of shame." Many survivors believe that because they were forced into a situation that damaged their credit or led to an eviction, they are "un-houseable."
We are here to tell you that is a lie.
Under federal protections, housing providers in the HUD program are required to look past those barriers if they are connected to domestic violence. Whether you are a veteran who has served our country or a mother trying to protect her children, your past does not dictate your future access to a home. At Pelagie Foundation, our programs are designed to bridge the gap between where you are and where you need to be.
Holistic Healing: More Than Just Four Walls
While a roof is the first step, it isn't the only step. Pelagie Foundation Ltd isn't just a housing organization; we are a wellness organization. We understand that trauma lives in the body and the spirit. That is why we integrate unique services that you won't find in a typical government office:
- ✓ Behavioral Health Services: Our telehealth and in-person counseling sessions help you process the trauma of displacement.
- ✓ Salon Therapy: We believe in the power of restorative care. Sometimes, a professional styling session or a wellness treatment can be the first step in reclaiming your identity and self-worth.
- ✓ Street Outreach: For those who aren't ready to come into an office, our street outreach teams go to where the need is greatest, providing immediate essentials and a listening ear.
Weekly Impact Update: March 9, 2026
This has been a busy week for the Pelagie team! Here is a look at what we’ve achieved together:
- Veterans Housing Initiative: We successfully transitioned three veteran families into stable housing this week. Our focus remains on those who have served and are now facing the threat of homelessness.
- Advocacy in Action: Our team assisted five women in completing their HUD Form 5382 certifications, bypassing traditional bureaucratic hurdles and moving them closer to safety.
- Community Growth: Our therapeutic gardening program has officially kicked off for the spring season. Seeing residents and staff work together in the dirt is a beautiful reminder of how we all can grow, even after the harshest winters.
Why Choose Pelagie Foundation Ltd?
We know there are many organizations out there, but our approach is different because it is rooted in compassionate professional excellence. We aren't just a service provider; we are your partners.
- BIPOC & Minority Focused: We understand the unique cultural barriers that underserved communities face.
- Award-Winning Service: With recognitions like the Stevie Award and our status as a CFC-approved organization, we bring high-level professionalism to the non-profit sector.
- Affordable and Accessible: We emphasize budget-friendly solutions because financial stress should never be a barrier to safety.
Be Part of Our Movement
We are more than just a foundation; we are a community of survivors, advocates, and donors who believe that transformation is possible. Whether you need help or you want to give help, there is a place for you here.
- Need Help? If you are in danger or need housing assistance, call us at 470-356-6285 or visit our help page. For immediate crisis support, remember the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233.
- Want to Partner? We are always looking for organizations and individuals to collaborate with. From housing providers to mental health professionals, let's work together to create a safety net that actually holds.
- Support the Mission: You can browse our shop or donate directly to support our behavioral health and salon therapy programs.
Make a Difference Together
Ready to take the next step? Whether it’s reclaiming your own life or helping someone else reclaim theirs, the time to act is now.
Join us in our mission to transform lives.
- Visit us: 1201 West Peachtree Street NW, Suite 2300, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Call us: 470-356-6285
- Follow our journey: About Pelagie Foundation
We are here to prove that no matter how dark the night has been, the morning is coming. Let’s walk toward it together.
Are you or someone you know looking for a fresh start?
Don’t wait for things to "get better" on their own. Reach out to a team that understands the complexity of domestic violence and housing. We are ready to listen.