The Chatterson's MJM Fundraiser

ABOUT MJM

The mission of Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) is to provide free legal representation and ongoing support to vulnerable community members impacted by family violence, child abuse, and child neglect. A unique organization in North Texas, MJM stands in the gap between the urgent need for protection and the lack of resources to meet it. 

Since 2006, MJM has served over 3,500 individuals by obtaining protective orders, custody, and divorce judgments with the safest resolutions for the clients we serve. Many are mothers who have made the courageous decision to escape abusive relationships. Others are loving relatives, like grandparents or aunts, stepping in to care for abused or neglected children. With the right legal safeguards and compassionate advocacy, survivors can break the cycle of harm and begin to rebuild. But our work goes beyond the courtroom. We connect families with trauma-informed counseling, emergency financial assistance, and a trusted network of community resources. MJM remains by each client’s side, often for many months or even years, ensuring they move from crisis to lasting security.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Today, the need is greater than ever. This year alone, MJM has filed 77% more cases than at this time last year. Every day, the phone rings with another urgent plea from a parent or child in danger. Every call is a chance to break the cycle of abuse.

Your North Texas Giving Day gift can be that lifeline. It ensures that a family with no financial means can still find safety, stability, and justice. Will you help us be there for the next caller? 

SOFIA'S STORY

Like so many women, Sofia believed that if she kept the peace, the violence might stop. But it didn’t—it only escalated. Over time, her husband became increasingly paranoid and volatile. Fearing for her safety and suspecting substance abuse, she made the brave decision to leave, taking her daughters with her. 

One afternoon, while the girls were at school, he showed up unannounced at her new home, begging to talk. But once inside, he cornered her, pleaded with her to take him back. When Sofia refused, he pulled out a gun, held her hostage, and physically assaulted her. The nightmare intensified when their daughters returned home from school and witnessed the horrific scene. With terrifying calm, he threatened to kill Sofia and the children if she didn’t agree to reunite. Thankfully, one of the girls managed to call 911. When police arrived, he grabbed one of their daughters and placed her in front of him as a shield while he made his way outside. After a standoff with officers, they managed to arrest him without incident. 

An advocate with the District Attorney’s Office referred Sofia to Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM). She knew that while her husband was out on bond pending his criminal case, they could get legal protection through the family courts.MJM took swift action. From intake through multiple court hearings, Sofia was met with trauma-informed care and compassion. Her MJM attorney secured a divorce, full custody of her children, and a 10-year protective order to ensure their safety. But the support didn’t end there. MJM’s team provided rent assistance, connected them to counseling, and made sure the girls had school supplies and holiday gifts that year.

Sofia later told staff, “I’m very grateful to MJM, everyone was there was kind and understanding. My attorney fought to the end, even when I thought it was impossible; he gave me hope. I’m here because of God’s mercy. I could have been dead, but I’m here. I’m taking advantage of every day with my daughters.”

This is not just one woman’s story—it’s a composite of numerous clients we’ve served. This North Texas Giving Day, your gift can help more survivors rebuild their lives. Give today. Help save a life.