Our Story

In high school, my best friend gave me the nickname “Jenna Marie”—a name that instantly conjures memories of a time when I felt safe, secure, and truly happy. When it came time to choose a name for this foundation, I knew I wanted one that would remind me—and every survivor—of that sense of safety and hope. Jenna Marie became not just a name, but a beacon of resilience and renewal.
 

I am a survivor of domestic violence. The decision to leave an abusive relationship was one of the hardest I’ve ever made, but it set me on a path toward healing. My children and I sought refuge in a domestic violence shelter, a place that did more than offer physical safety—it taught me what a healthy, respectful relationship should look like. There, I learned how to set and hold safe, constructive boundaries, and I discovered the power of self-advocacy. Every lesson, from standing up for myself to creating personalized exit strategies, became a steppingstone toward a brighter tomorrow.
 

While in that shelter, I made a promise to myself: when I was strong enough, I would do more to help others who found themselves trapped in similar circumstances. That promise propelled me to go back to college in my 40’s. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Victim Studies and a master’s degree in Victim Service Management—knowledge that not only empowered me personally but also equipped me with the tools needed to lead this foundation with expertise and compassion.

​

This foundation is the embodiment of that promise—a commitment born from personal
experience and a deep awareness of our community’s needs. In areas like Spring, Houston, and Conroe, shelters are perpetually full, with waiting lists that underscore the demand for safe spaces and compassionate care.
 

The harsh reality is that abuse knows no boundaries. Research shows that nearly one in four women will experience domestic violence, and similar figures exist for sexual assault among men, with millions affected by intimate partner violence each year. I wish with all my heart that those we love would never cause us harm, but the truth remains that so many live in fear and uncertainty. This foundation stands as a testament to the belief that every survivor deserves not only to be heard, but also to have access to the support and resources necessary to rebuild their lives.
 

Today, The Jenna Marie Foundation for Survivors of Abuse is dedicated to connecting survivors with trusted community resources and offering direct support wherever possible. Whether it’s emergency financial assistance, safe transportation, or simply a compassionate ear, our mission is to ensure that no survivor ever feels alone in their struggle. Through our ongoing work—and with the hope ignited by our first Annual Christmas Extravaganza, which brought light and support to many—we continue to strive for a community where every survivor can rediscover their strength and reclaim their future.