Summary of Services
- Offers workshops and mentoring to break cycles of abuse, promote self-esteem, reinforce safety, encourage healthy routines, and set personal goals
- Provides job training, resume development, business planning, and financial literacy to help survivors achieve economic independence and career success
- Offers 18 months of safe, drug-free housing with counseling, mentoring, educational support, and employment guidance
- Equips women and children with practical skills to protect themselves
- Supports global projects, such as Kenya Water Projects, to extend assistance beyond local communities
Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence
Founded in 2017 with a global vision to protect and uplift women and children, Hopefull Handbags is an advocate for survivors of domestic violence. The organization is committed to providing support that enables individuals to begin their journey toward safety, recovery, and long-term self-sufficiency. Recognizing that intimate partner abuse often leaves deep physical, emotional, and psychological scars, Hopefull Handbags offers programs and resources to help survivors rebuild their lives, regain independence, and cultivate a sense of hope.
Creating a Foundation for Lasting Change and Confidence
Central to the organization’s mission is the SHINE program, an acronym for Safety, Habit, Independence, New Way of Living, and Empowerment. This transformative program helps survivors and their families break free from abuse while fostering confidence and personal growth. Participants engage in structured workshops and mentoring sessions that address guilt, reinforce safety, and encourage healthy routines. Group sessions also offer a safe space for sharing experiences, receiving advice, and building a supportive community of peers.
Hopefull Handbags also emphasizes economic independence through its NEW program, or Navigating Employment Wins. This initiative equips survivors with the skills and knowledge to achieve financial stability and accountability. Participants receive hands-on training in areas such as job readiness, resume development, career planning, business entrepreneurship, and financial literacy.
Promoting Financial Independence Through Its Programs
In addition to personal development programs, Hopefull Handbags provides housing support through Carolyn’s Haven of Hope, offering 18 months of safe, drug-free residential accommodations. Residents have the opportunity to establish healthy routines, receive individualized counseling and mentoring, access educational and vocational resources, and work toward employment and financial independence.
Beyond SHINE, NEW, and housing support, Hopefull Handbags offers self-defense classes that teach women and children skills to protect themselves, journaling workshops to foster emotional healing, and community engagement projects in collaboration with colleges and universities. The organization also extends its reach internationally, participating in initiatives such as Kenya Water Projects to provide resources and support to vulnerable communities abroad.