Help follows survival

Nan Jones, after living with and through domestic abuse, has opened a business to help women get back on their feet after getting out of dangerous situations. There was a time not so long ago when Nan Jones wouldn’t openly discuss domestic abuse. She is a survivor, and the topic hit too close to home.

But the Costa Mesa mother of two has come to terms with her past and is ready to help others get out of potentially dangerous situations.

Jones has started a small business, called Nothing Over 50 Cents, that helps battered women and children transition into new lives.

“I’m still headed toward recovery, and I’m in a position to help,” Jones said.

Jones said she understands that many domestic abuse survivors are forced to leave everything behind them when they flee their homes. She and her sons, now 13 and 6, were in and out of recovery shelters before returning to Southern California in 2002.

Some women and children have no choice but to return because of financial shortfalls, she said.

That’s why since September, Jones has accepted donated items, such as clothing, blankets, silverware and books, that are -- or will be -- sold for 50 cents each to women who need them.

Jones began raising money by selling candy on the ground floor of her apartment complex and at work. She said she has already helped a few women get away from abusive situations.

The next step, Jones said, is working toward nonprofit status.

Already, Jones is assembling move-out kits to give to women when they leave home in a hurry. These include toiletries and food.

Jones said eventually she would like to have partnerships with local shelters and apartment complexes so she can provide short-term housing options to those in need. Job referrals and grief counseling are other services Jones said she would like to offer.

Some members of her Santa Ana church have helped by buying items. Bible study group friend Alison Benton said she is proud of Jones’ efforts.

“I didn’t know how it would evolve. I trusted it would work,” Benton said. “She has such a glow about her.”

Jones keeps the donated items stored at her Costa Mesa apartment. She said she is not accepting new clothing donations until she has more clients. Her wish list includes people to serve on a future board of directors.

Jones said the process has “been good therapy for me.” It is best put in her recent journal entry.

“But through it all we survived and learned how to deal with some and eliminate others. This road has not been easy, but the rewards have been great.”

For more information, e-mail Nan Jones at [email protected].

20060118it07ykncKENT TREPTOW / DAILY PILOT(LA)