Finding Safety in a Time of Crisis

How Cherish Families Helps You Plan, Prepare, and Heal



When life feels scary or out of control, it can be hard to know where to turn. Maybe you are worried about violence at home, your children’s safety, or what might happen if you ask for help. In times like these, you do not have to go through it alone. Cherish Families is here to walk with you, listen without judgment, and help you find safety, peace, and hope.

Here are 8 important things to know about finding safety in a time of crisis.

1. What Is a Safety Plan?

A safety plan is a simple guide to help you stay safe. It is more than a list. It is something made just for you, based on what you need. You can make a plan if you are thinking about leaving a dangerous situation, getting ready for an emergency, or trying to stay safe where you are now.

Your plan might include:

• Where to go if you need to leave fast
  
• Who to call for help
  
• How to keep papers, medicine, or clothes ready
  
• How to talk safely with someone you trust
  
  

Even small steps like packing a bag, learning a phone number, or using a code word can help when things feel scary or confusing.

2. How to Know When to Reach Out

Sometimes, when you live in fear for a long time, it starts to feel normal. But being afraid is not something you have to live with.



Watch for signs like:

• Being threatened or yelled at
  
• Being cut off from family or friends
  
• Being followed, watched, or controlled
  
• Feeling trapped, hopeless, or afraid all the time
  
  

If something feels wrong, it probably is. You can trust your gut. Talking to someone who understands can help you see what is really going on.

3. How Cherish Families Can Help

We know it can be hard to ask for help—especially if you are in a high-control or close-knit community where trust is not easy. Our team is here to support you, not judge you.



We can help you:

• Make a safety plan that fits your life
  
• Understand your legal rights, like protective orders
  
• Have someone with you at court, the doctor, or when talking to police
  
• Get help with child safety or custody questions
  
• Connect with mental health and suicide prevention support
  
• Get follow-up care so you are not left alone
  

4. Your Choices Matter

You are the expert on your life. No one else can decide for you. Whether you want to make changes now or just talk through your options, we will meet you with kindness and respect.



You do not have to rush. You do not have to explain everything. We will go at your pace.

5. Breaking Down the Barriers

We understand that reaching out can feel risky. You might worry about being judged, losing your kids, or being pushed away by people you love. You may not have a safe phone or car. That is okay.



We can help by:

• Using safe and private ways to talk
  
• Helping with transportation
  
• Offering support from people who understand high-control situations
  
  

We will never pressure you. We will work with you to make a plan that is safe and works for your life

6. You Are Not Alone

No matter what you are going through, there is help. There is hope. You can contact Cherish Families through our website or call our private support line.

We will listen. We will believe you. And we will help you take your next step toward safety.

Crisis Resources:

• Cherish Families – Visit cherishfamilies.org
• National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233
• Utah Domestic Violence Coalition – (800) 897-5465
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
  

7. Healing Starts Here

Crisis can turn your world upside down. But with the right support, healing is possible. At Cherish Families, we understand how hard it can be. Many of us have lived through it too.



We will walk beside you as you build a safer, more stable future. One step at a time.

8. You Deserve Safety and Hope

You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be treated with respect. You deserve to live without fear.



You are not alone. We are here to help.