Leaving an abusive relationship is often only the beginning of the healing journey.
Survivors may face safety concerns, emotional challenges, post-separation abuse, legal obstacles, financial uncertainty, and the difficult process of rebuilding their lives.

Through safety planning, education, resource navigation, and trauma-informed guidance, Wings of Freedom International helps survivors create individualized plans for safety, recovery, and long-term empowerment.

Before Leaving

1. 
   Important documents: Gather ID, birth certificates, passports, financial records, and legal paperwork. Store them securely or leave copies with someone you trust.
2. 
   Emergency contacts: Keep a list of trusted friends, family members, and local domestic violence hotlines memorized or saved securely.
3. 
   Financial preparation: Set aside cash securely if possible, or open a separate bank account if it can be done safely without detection.
4. 
   Child safety considerations: Talk to your children about safety without scaring them. Plan a safe word or a signal for when it is time to leave.

Digital Safety

1. 
   Password protection: Update passwords for emails, social accounts, and banking from a safe device (like a library or trusted friend’s computer), not a shared phone.
2. 
   Location sharing: Double-check phone settings, maps, and apps to turn off location sharing. Be aware of any shared family account settings.
3. 
   Social media safety: Tighten all privacy settings, avoid posting your location or daily routines, or consider temporarily deactivating your accounts.

During a Crisis

1. 
   Emergency contacts: Call 911 immediately if you are in immediate danger. Keep domestic violence hotline numbers easily accessible.
2. 
   Safe locations: Identify safe rooms in the house with an exit and no weapons (like near a door or window), or plan a trusted neighbor’s house to run to.
3. 
   Exit planning: Keep your keys, phone, and an emergency bag in an easily accessible place so you can leave quickly if tension escalates.

After Leaving

1. 
   Post-separation abuse: Be aware that harassment can continue. Keep log entries, screenshots, and records of all unwanted contacts or incidents.
2. 
   Stalking awareness: Change up your daily routines, commuting routes, and regular grocery stores. Consider having a mechanic check your vehicle for tracking devices.
3. 
   Legal considerations: Document everything. Consult a legal advocate or attorney regarding protective orders, temporary custody, and documentation requirements.
4. 
   Emotional recovery: Give yourself grace. Healing takes time. Consider connecting with support groups, trauma-informed therapists, or specialized counselors.

Rebuilding Your Life

1. 
   Housing: Explore local confidential safe shelters, transitional housing programs, or look into affordable housing assistance.
2. 
   Employment: Seek out job training programs, resume building resources, and local career centers designed to help survivors re-enter the workforce securely.
3. 
   Education: Look into local scholarship opportunities, GED programs, or flexible community college courses to build new skill sets.
4. 
   Community support: Connect with local non-profit support groups, mentorship programs, and community networks to surround yourself with encouragement.