Programs
Here at the Sugie Lane Foundation, we work tirelessly to uplift and support the community around us. Our focus is on developing programs that provide assistance to those in need, especially children and families. Our passion for positive change drives everything we do, and we are proud to extend our helping hand to any and all who seek out our support. Come join us on this journey of hope and progress today!
Silver Lining
Our Silver Lining program assists children whose lives are traumatically altered by the murder of a parent due to domestic violence. Through no fault of their own they are orphaned by one senseless act. In some cases, the children witness the murder, the immediate aftermath, call 911, or provide CPR in an attempt to save their mothers’ lives. Every day, these children battle PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, night terrors, aggression, cutting, and/or bed wetting. Child traumatized ofter become stuck developmentally.
Elderly grandparents or other family members take guardianship of the children after the murder. At the same time, they are grieving, coping with the trauma of the homicide, and reliving the murder in court fighting/seeking justice for their loved ones. Often these loving family members are not financially, emotionally, or physically prepared to parent young children.
Our Silver Lining families receive financial assistance to help with food, clothing, toiletries, and household supplies. We provide opportunities for normalcy such as art, dance lessons, sports, and summer camps.
Sugie Lane Foundation will host family outings like an adventure at moody garden and a behind the scenes day at the Zoo. The children form bonds knowing they are not alone and are creating new happy memories together.
In addition to financial assistance the program funds guardianship fees, legal name changes, furniture, bedding, room makeover, therapy. We assist with school supplies, field trips, computers, tutoring, and unexpected needs. All of the children will be celebrated on their birthdays and holidays are remembered with themed activities.
The relationship I want to have with the families is one of trust. To feel comfortable to call me when they need a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, or simply to share what is on their minds. We will walk the journey with these vulnerable families from despair to hope, like I did these 25 years. These children are fresh reminders of the challenges that face the silent, under-served victims of domestic violence homicide. Sugie Lane Foundation sees to the basic yet critical needs of these children and provides normalcy in their lives so they can experience the lost joys of childhood.
Starla's Legacy
Starla.
At 7 years old, I will never forget when I got off the bus and saw momma sitting on the front porch with a new puppy in her lap. She was holding her like a little baby, all wrapped up in a blanket. Momma was just a smiling and beaming. She loved all animals, but this was our first inside dog. She and I sat there with a list of names until she came up with Starla. Starla’s name came from “star” and she was unknowingly a “star”in a dark time.
Besides her children, Starla, a Pomeranian Shih Tzu, was Sugie’s most beloved addition to the family. Sugie hid a little bit of money from each time she got paid for babysitting until she saved enough to buy her. This was a huge accomplishment. For the first time she made herself a priority and she bought herself something. Sugie loved Starla so much, they were inseparable. They loved cuddling together, sharing food, going outside to play and momma watching Starla lay in the sun.
Sadly, Starla witnessed Sugie’s abuse. Once Sugie and Starla were separated through this tragedy, It was evident she missed her momma by her somber demeanor. Starla and I were sent to live with different family members. Not only was Starla separated from Sugie, now she was separated from me. Starla was the bridge between me and the loss of my mother. Pets are the normalcy after a tragedy to help bridge the gap between loved ones and lost ones. My goal is to help bridge that gap.
Starla was a victim of domestic abuse. We understand how devastating it is for pets to be caught in the crossfire of domestic violence.
Family pets are often unnoticed victims of domestic abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 71% of women entering shelters reported that their batterer had injured, killed or threatened to hurt their pet to psychologically control them or get revenge. Once victims leave, the abuse of their pets often increases. That concern keeps people from leaving their batterer. Animal cruelty is one of the earliest and most dramatic indicators that an individual may be developing a pattern or seeking power and control through abusing others. When animals in a home are abused or neglected it is a warning sign that others in the household may be in danger.
LOOKING for Community Partnerships
The goal of this partnership is to provide long-term foster care for pets while domestic violence victims receive shelter assistance and ultimately reunite them with their loved ones. Currently, in Southeast Texas, only service and emotional support animals are allowed at some domestic violence shelters. This foster program is an essential step in helping victims of domestic violence feel confident in leaving an abusive situation knowing their pets will be safely fostered.
We have partnered with (name) to establish a support system for victims and their pets to co-shelter when leaving an abusive situation. The (name) and Sugie Lane Foundation share the same passion and resolve to find ways to assist both people and pets suffering in domestic violence situations.
If you know someone or a shelter who would want to join me in the cause please contact us.