A local nonprofit who works with child abuse victims will be starting another support group on Feb 28 for women who are survivors of child sexual abuse. This will be the second “Courage Group” started by the Fannin County Children’s Center.
The free support group will meet on Thursday nights from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Children’s Center at 112 W. 5th in Bonham. Women who are 18 years or older and who were sexually abused as a child are eligible to participate at no cost.
Last year the agency started its first Courage Group. Participants have overwhelmingly been pleased with the benefits in attending. One participant said that “I have watched as members of the Courage Group have blossomed, holding heads higher and smiling so much more.” She went on to say that “I am a more rounded and happy person for being part of this magical Courage Group.”
Many of the group members feel the group is a place where they can be understood and accepted. Another member said “Since I started attending the support group, I found a place where I am not afraid of being judged or sneered at, because people have such an adverse reaction to someone who has been sexually abused; even more so if it is “incest.” It has such a hard label, a hurtful connotation to the person who bears the violation. It is almost like what has happened to me, will rub off on them.”
The new group will meet weekly at the center beginning on Feb 28. For questions or to join the Courage Group, contact Sandy Hood at (903) 583-4339.