Domestic abuse is an issue of control. Abusers seek to keep their victims under their control by not allowing the victim to leave the house and stalking and harassing them when they do leave. Because of this behavior on the part of the abuser, complex psychological dynamics, and practical considerations, women leave abusive situations an average of five to seven times. Each time she leaves, the abuse escalates such that she and her children experience increasing levels of danger. Many women stay in very dangerous situations because they have no assistance in relocating to a safe community. Housing by family or friends may not be a viable option due to the fact that the abuser can find her in these places and they may lack the support structure she needs for psychological healing. Many women choose homelessness over abuse. In fact, the typical homeless family is composed of a mother and two to three children averaging five years of age, half of whom who are fleeing domestic abuse.

Wing Haven addresses these serious barriers to women becoming abuse free by providing relocation assistance to women and children five years old and younger, an intensive healing program for women and children, legal connection support and safe housing for a year.