Nighttime in the Shelter

Nighttime is the time the ghosts come out to play, at least the ones in our minds and hearts.  It is when the world quiets down and if not asleep, there is nothing to distract us from the reality of who, where, and how we are in the world.  For the women staying in Helpmate's shelter, this is especially true.  It is a time when there are no appointments to keep, the children are in bed, and there is nothing that can be done.  If not asleep, this is the time when the reality of heartache can set in and the mind races to decide the next step or to figure out the truth.  Does he/she really love me?  Should I stay or should I go?  Sometimes the history of past abuse from friends, family members, or prior relationships raises its head to be dealt with.  Some women have experienced abuse at night when they have been in a deep sleep only to wake up in a nightmare.

During third shift, when women need to talk I am here to listen, provide a comforting space, and help them to not feel quite so alone.  Many nights I find women who are almost desperate for a project or cleaning to do in order to distract them.  Nights when the house is quiet there is always other work to be done, such as:  compiling numbers for a grant, printing letters, sending out mailings, typing notes, organizing the clothing closet, database entry, and/or answering the crisis line.  Sometimes, a woman needs to be brought into shelter unexpectedly in the middle of the night. After intake (filling out paperwork if she is able) I get her settled into her room quickly and make sure all of her most immediate needs are taken care of.  These needs can include getting food from the pantry, toiletries, towels, etc.  It can also be as crucial as figuring out how to get her children to the shelter and away from an abusive partner.

From around 6:00 AM the house begins to awaken, daylight starts seeping in, the children stir, and a new day begins.