Two nights before Christmas, alone, locked in her room and badly injured from that day's beating, Margie wrapped her children's presents with pretty ribbons and tears of desperation.

Afraid, but determined, she reached out for help and called the Mountain Resource Center in Conifer. She had known about the Center as a result of her volunteer work there.

Kathy Mastroianni, the Family Advocate at the Center, was quick to supply her with a wealth of information, including a list of resources. Acting as a liaison, the Center reached out on Valerie's behalf to help get her started on her newfound journey to freedom and safety. There were baskets of food deliverd. St. Laurence Episcopal Church in Conifer came forward to help. The Salvation Army also helped with bills. Margie was also able to get help with her electric bill from LEAP, the state's Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Margie's place of worship, the Church of Latter Day Saints in Evergreen was there for her. Good friends rallied to her side too, steadying Margie and her famiy with their love and support through this most difficult time.

Had the Mountain Resource Center's family advocate, Kathy, not been there fromt he beginning. Magie wonders where she would be now.