Healing Hearts,

Changing Lives.

Healing Hearts,

Changing Lives.

Restoring lives after trauma through safe housing, healing resources, and life skills.

Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and independence, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to reclaim their life and thrive in a supportive environment.

Our Mission

The Healing Hearts Initiative is a grassroots movement based in Ohio, created to support survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and young adults aging out of foster care. We provide a holistic path to healing - offering immediate crisis response, mental health care, life skills training, safe housing, and long-term support that strengthens individuals, families, and communities.

We believe healing is not just about surviving - it's about rebuilding, growing, and thriving. That’s why our work goes beyond short-term aid. We focus on stability, self-sufficiency, and personal growth, walking alongside survivors as they reclaim control over their lives and create a future rooted in dignity and possibility.

At our core, we are a grassroots force for change in Ohio, meeting people where they are and helping them move forward - one step, one story, one life at a time.

Who We Help

We serve individuals who have faced trauma, instability, and significant life challenges. These individuals often struggle with safety concerns, mental health issues, financial insecurity, and a lack of support systems

Survivors of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking survivors often escape dangerous situations with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

We provide a safe space where they can begin the healing process and regain control over their lives.

Victims of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence survivors need support in breaking free from abusive situations and rebuilding their lives. .

We connect them with safe housing, emotional support, and practical resources to ensure long-term stability.

Young Adults Aging Out of Foster Care

For many young adults leaving the foster care system, the transition to independence is overwhelming.

We help them secure stable housing, find employment, and develop essential life skills so they can build a successful future.

What We Do

Three ways we help survivors move from crisis to stability and growth.

Haven of Hope Program

  • Transitional housing for survivors in need.

  • Support with long-term housing applications and financial planning.

  • Collaboration with housing programs to ensure safe, stable living.

  • Emergency assistance for individuals in immediate danger.

  • Safety planning to help survivors leave unsafe environments.

  • Referrals to essential resources, including legal aid and medical care.

Pathways to Independence

  • Financial literacy training (budgeting, saving, and responsible spending).

  • Workforce Development (resume building, interview skills, and job readiness).

  • Communication and self-advocacy training for personal and professional growth.

  • Scholarship assistance & college application support for survivors pursuing higher education.

  • Vocational training & certifications in high-demand industries.

  • Partnerships with businesses to create internships and job placement opportunities. 

Healing Hearts Support Network

  • Mental Health Counseling for individuals who experienced trauma.

  • Trauma recovery planning to help survivors recover. 

  • Peer-led support groups where survivors connect and share experiences.

  • Mentorship programs offering long-term guidance.

  • Social networking opportunities to encourage healthy relationships.

Our Impact

In just two years, Healing Hearts Initiative has expanded its grassroots work touching lives.

Creating real outcomes for survivors across our community:

  • Haven of Hope
    Provided safe emergency housing and essential support to 30 survivors escaping domestic violence or trafficking. 100% received safety planning and help applying for long-term housing.
     

  • Pathways to Independence
    Delivered financial literacy and job readiness training to 35 individuals — 80% secured employment, internships, or enrolled in college/vocational programs.
     

  • Healing Hearts Support Network
    Facilitated counseling and peer-led support groups for 60 participants. 90% reported emotional healing, reduced isolation, and stronger self-advocacy. 

Additional support highlights:

  • Over 10 foster youth received clothing, phone coverage, and daily essentials
     

  • 4–5 families provided with baby supplies and critical items
     

  • 25 women in shelters received personal care kits and wellness support
     

  • First-month rent covered for 5 individuals in housing crisis
     

  • Ongoing rent support of $1,400/month for a long-term client facing housing insecurity

Our Growth Plan

Year 1: Laying the Foundation

  • Launch initial programs and conduct outreach to survivors in need.

  • Establish partnerships with shelters, businesses, and service providers.

Year 2: Expansion & Evaluation

  • Increase capacity and expand services to reach more survivors.

  • Evaluate program effectiveness through surveys, interviews, and participant feedback.

Year 2: Expansion & Evaluation

  • Improve and refine programs based on participant needs.

  • Secure long-term funding sources for sustainable impact

Goals & Expected Outcomes

Goal 1

Provide safe housing for at least 50 survivors within the first year of the program. 

Goal 2

Facilitate 12 counseling sessions and support groups each month, reaching at least 100 participants annually. 

Goal 3

Host 6 life skills workshops per year, with 80% of participants reporting increased confidence in their independence. 

How We Sustain Our Mission

Funding Sources

We rely on:

  • Grants from foundations supporting survivor rehabilitation.

  • Donations from individuals passionate about our mission.

  • Fundraising events to engage the community.

Sustainability Plan

We are:

  • Partnering with local businesses to provide job opportunities.

  • Collaborating with housing organizations to secure long-term support.

  • Engaging faith-based groups and community leaders in our efforts.

Thanks to Our Community Partners

Our Team

Soretha Eldridge

Founder and Board Chair

Letisha Goode

Vice President

Keturah Parker

Executive Director

Kimora Pinkston

Secretary

Lewis Pinkston III

Treasurer

Lacey Vincent

Marketing Specialist

Our History

The Why

The Healing Hearts Initiative was born out of my personal experiences and a deep desire to address the gaps in support for survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and young adults aging out of the foster care system.

As someone who has witnessed firsthand the emotional, financial, and societal challenges faced by individuals in these vulnerable situations, I felt compelled to create a safe space where healing, empowerment, and independence could truly be achieved.

A Message From The Founder

I founded the Healing Hearts Initiative because I saw how often survivors are left to navigate life on their own, without the necessary resources or support systems to rebuild their lives.

Many face barriers to housing, counseling, education, and life skills training, which are crucial for long-term stability.

I wanted to create an organization that not only addressed these barriers but also provided a holistic approach to recovery—one that focuses on mental health, personal growth, and community reintegration.

Our Inspiration

The inspiration for this nonprofit stems from my belief that everyone deserves a chance to reclaim their life, regardless of their past.

I have always been passionate about advocacy and social work, and through my professional experiences, I recognized the urgent need for a comprehensive program that meets survivors where they are and helps them move forward.

Our Nonprofit as a Whole

The Healing Hearts Initiative is more than just a nonprofit—it’s a mission to restore hope, dignity, and independence to those who have endured unimaginable hardships.

My goal is to empower individuals to break the cycle of trauma, build a strong foundation for their future, and thrive in a supportive and understanding community.

We earned the 2025 Candid Gold Seal of Transparency

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Join Us

Every survivor deserves a chance to heal, grow, and succeed. Here’s how you can help:

  • Donate – Your support provides housing, counseling, and life-changing services.

  • Volunteer – Offer your time and skills to empower survivors.

  • Partner With Us – Businesses and organizations can collaborate to create new opportunities.

Together, we can turn pain into power and trauma into triumph.

Contact Us

Healing Hearts, Changing Lives.

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Copyright © 2025 Healing Hearts Initiative - All Rights Reserved.

Federal EIN: 99-4711012

990n e-Postcard: View Here

Cleveland Location: 440 E 149th St, Cleveland, OH 44110

Columbus Location: 5109 Chipman Dr Columbus, Ohio 43232

Serving Victims in the State of Ohio