FiND iT FREDERiCK Magazine Winter 2016 | Page 35

SHARE iT! With a mission to end domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse, and to provide victims with safety, shelter and supportive services, Heartly House is an organization filled with staff and volunteers who lead with the hearts of helpers. Heartly House is a place of compassion and has served Frederick County residents who have been impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse for over 30 years. They also provide assistance to those affected secondarily such as family members, spouses, significant others, and sisters or brothers. Heartly House's wide variety of services include a 24-hour hotline, which is available 7 days a week, with a TTY line and language interpreters who are also available when needed. A handicap accessible emergency shelter is available for victims of domestic violence who are in immediate danger. For many abuse victims, finding somewhere to go without leaving their pets behind feels like a big obstacle, so for those in crisis who have pets, a Safe Pet Program will provide a confidential shelter for family pets while clients reside at the emergency shelter. The importance counseling services play in the recovery of victims of violence and abuse is paramount. The programs offered by Heartly House are one of the programs most impressive elements. Services include crisis appointments, ongoing counseling, and support groups. Topics such as Breaking the Cycle for Domestic Violence Victims, Sexual Assault Support, and Adults Molested as Children give clients a safe place to heal with the support of skilled counselors and fellow survivors. Heartly House also works closely with a diverse group of other community organizations to help provide any other necessary resources a client may find beneficial such as the Frederick Rescue Mission, Way Station, Project 103, Cold Weather Shelter, Department of Social Services and Community Action Agency. WWW.FiNDiTFREDERiCK.COM 35