Help Stop Military Family Violence

Children who grow up in violent homes often carry the scars for a lifetime — emotional, psychological, and even physical. But because of your compassion and support, Steph’s story is taking a different path.

Steph’s mother reached out to Pathways from an overseas U.S. military base, desperate for help. The abuse from her husband had become unbearable, yet she was torn — afraid to report him and risk his career, but even more afraid for her child’s safety. She knew she had to protect Steph before it was too late.

With our guidance, Steph’s mother created a safe and confidential plan to leave. Pathways helped her navigate the complex systems involved in escaping from a military base abroad, connecting her with the right resources to ensure both she and Steph could return safely to the United States.

Today, they are home, safe, and beginning to heal. Steph is surrounded by care, stability and love from her mother and grandparents.

Your generosity through GlobalGiving made this possible. Pathways continues to fill the critical gap for American victims of domestic violence abroad — without any government funding since 2019. Each story like Steph’s is a direct reflection of your kindness and belief in our mission.

Thank you for helping to give this child the gift of safety, hope, and a brighter future.

The Pathways' Team

We have been working with Daria for several months to help her and her son Joaquin flee domestic violence and come back home to the USA.

Her abusive husband in the US military overseas refused to sign the return of dependents paperwork and threatened her with parental kidnapping under the Hague Convention if she left with Joaquin.

Pathways and advocates at the Family Advocacy Center worked together to try to find a solution. We arranged a legal consult for Daria to help her understand what her legal options were if she did return home with Joaquin.

The amount of proof of severe domestic violence Daria had suffered from her husband while Joaquin watched was significant.

Finally, Daria made the decision to return home with Joaquin without her abusive husband's approval. She is staying with relatives in the USA and accessing all possible resources while she moves forward with their lives.

Daria told us that she slept through the night for the first time in what felt like years. Joaquin would not leave her side at first, but slowly he is becoming more outgoing, playing and enjoying the summer. 

Without donors like you, we would not be able to help victims like Daria and Joaquin. Thank you!

Paula Lucas, Founder