Brenda Jackson's Beacon of Hope: Surviving Abuse

0:00Brenda Jackson survived 13 years of domestic violence left her husband in 1985 and moved to Texas for a new beginning, but she ended up in another abusive marriage before breaking free. Now, as founder of I Can Still Shine, a faith-based nonprofit in North Richland Hills, she's helped over 16,000 clients escape similar traps without a single life lost. She started helping women back in 1995 after one reached out for food and counseling. Following from her own pain, Jackson connected folks to housing, clothes, and resources. What began as a one-year commitment stretched to 31 years, evolving into this center 15 years ago that linked survivors to real support. Though it's not a shelter or counseling service, her efforts have provided scholarships for 95 moms and teens head into college, over 40 cars for those in need, and A to about 1. 150 families yearly with rent, bills, and insurance. They run a food bank feeding over 300 women and kids monthly, distribute more than 5,000

1:03clothing items a year, and offer off-site. Counseling access. Volunteers like Frank Hurtig, who's been involved since around 2011, praise her selfless focus on others. He calls it a comprehensive way to get women and kids out of danger, noting how Jackson walks beside them, reminding them they're not alone and will. Make it through. Since too many still needing help, Jackson shows no signs of slowing down, turning personal scars into a beacon of hope for Tarant County survivors. That's your Dallas News Today update, AI-powered, and always on.