A Message From Dr. Malika Washington, LCSW

As we welcome Q3 of 2026, I am encouraged by the many ways the women of House of Cherith continue to move forward in their journeys. Providing a safe place to live is an important part of the work we do, yet our homes are also places where women have opportunities to rest, rebuild, experience community, work toward their goals, and begin looking ahead to what comes next.

This quarter, several of our residents are preparing to travel to a retreat focused on restoration and refreshing. The retreat will provide them with an opportunity to step away from the routines and responsibilities of everyday life, enjoy a new experience, connect with one another, and simply breathe and take in the beauty around them. These moments matter.

As we transition into fall, I am especially mindful of the importance of connection, rest, and joy. As a clinical social worker, I recognize that this time of year can bring changes in mood and emotional well-being for some, including those who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). For me, this makes the everyday experiences within our homes even more meaningful, whether it is an opportunity for the women we serve to connect, laugh, celebrate an accomplishment, or experience a sense of peace in the midst of life's challenges. Those experiences are part of the journey, just as much as the larger milestones.

Throughout House of Cherith, I have the privilege of watching our residents work toward employment, permanent housing, stronger relationships, personal goals, and greater independence. I am also intentional about looking ahead, identifying opportunities for our programs to grow, and ensuring the work we do continues to meet the needs of the women we serve. Progress looks different for every woman, and it is a privilege to walk alongside them as they take those steps at their own pace.

Scripture reminds us that “we are co-workers in God’s service” (1 Corinthians 3:9), which beautifully captures the collective effort behind this work. I am thankful for every staff member, partner, volunteer, and supporter who contributes their time, talents, resources, prayers, and care to the women we serve. Each person plays a part, and the work within our homes would not be possible without that collective commitment.

There is still much to look forward to in 2026, and I am encouraged by what lies ahead.

National Recovery Month

September was Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the courage, strength, and perseverance of those walking the journey of recovery. At House of Cherith, we were honored to celebrate the women we serve and the hard work they put in every day to maintain their recovery and build new lives.

“Every day, I get a front-row seat to watch women recover and reclaim the life God has for them. To me, this month is about removing the stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse and reminding people that addiction does not get the final say in someone’s story.”
— Lori Schmidt, Addiction Recovery Specialist

Throughout the month, we celebrated our residents’ recovery journeys with a special Recovery Party honoring the time and dedication they have invested in recovery. We also had the privilege of hosting the Georgia Council for Recovery Bus Tour, which brought powerful stories of lived experience, a Narcan training, and an evening of connection and community to House of Cherith.

Recovery happens one day at a time, and we are grateful to celebrate every step forward with the women we serve.

Resident Wins

Every step forward is worth celebrating. This quarter, our residents have been moving, working, learning, and stepping into the futures they've been working so hard to build. We are so proud of each of these women!

📝 M officially changed her legal name!

🔑 S moved into her own place for the first time in three years!

🗣️ M is learning how to set healthy boundaries and use her voice, and she got a job!

🏘️ B moved into our long-term residential program!

💼 E received employment!

⚖️ A obtained a pro bono attorney to assist her with her divorce from her abuser.

📦 K is preparing to move into housing of her very own!

🌱 J is learning how to use her voice and focusing on her health and wellbeing.

"Every win, big or small, is proof that restoration is possible and that every woman's story is still being written."

Digital Trafficking Resources

The threat of trafficking can reach children through the screens they use every day. From social media and gaming platforms to messaging apps, traffickers use technology to build trust, manipulate, and exploit vulnerable young people.

At House of Cherith, we believe prevention begins with awareness. Drawing on survivor-informed knowledge and trusted research, we’ve created free resources to help parents, caregivers, educators, and teens recognize warning signs, navigate online safety, and start important conversations.

Explore our free digital trafficking resources and help equip the next generation to stay safe online.

Learn more

House of Cherith’s Retreat to Colorado

House of Cherith residents experienced a once-in-a-lifetime retreat in the mountains of Colorado last week!

During their time away, residents enjoyed horseback riding, hiking, worship, and rest. The retreat created space for freedom, joy, and healing in new and powerful ways.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this trip possible through your generous bundle donations. Your support helped create meaningful moments and lasting memories for House of Cherith residents.

Story of Hope

Before the House of Cherith, I was lost and did not have goals, plans, or even an idea on where to start to get back on my feet after incarceration. For the last 5 years, I was in and out of jail, repeating a cycle of confusion and conflicts. I was starting things and not finishing them, and I wasn't getting any counseling from a trustworthy person. I also never had a routine before coming here.

At the House of Cherith, I have learned a lot, even about myself, because of the peace I experience here. I learned that it’s normal to be independent at 25 years old; I can still love my family while being aware of what was done wrong, and that when you are ready for a change, you slowly make the steps towards it. I learned that routines are also important.

My goals for the future involve me at City of Refuge giving back and serving where I am needed. My goals will be to stay employed and knowing what it means to work hard for what I need and want. I plan to carry out God’s purpose which I believe is to guide teenagers and relate to them while explaining how I overcame challenges. I plan on going to church continuously too!

-L | House of Cherith Resident