A new emergency shelter in Montgomery is now open to mothers and children who need a safe place to go. Samaritan's Place was founded by LaDonna Brendle through Reality and Truth Ministries, working in partnership with Embrace Alabama Kids, according to WSFA's report published Friday evening.

The faith-based program is run by volunteers and has nine private family rooms. Each family gets its own room, and a bathroom is shared with the adjoining room. Brendle says many of the women arriving are leaving domestic violence, and she described the goal in plain terms: "They need to be safe."

Staying at Samaritan's Place comes with structure. Residents take classes in budgeting, parenting and emotional intelligence and work with a case manager from a partner organization that has not been named publicly. They share chores, cook their own meals and volunteer, and the shelter enforces a curfew and quiet hours. Drugs and alcohol are not allowed.

Brendle's message to the community was that no one should have to stay in an abusive relationship just to keep a roof over their head. A place built for mothers with children gives women with nowhere to turn a concrete alternative.

How to get help or lend a hand: The shelter lists one number, 334-354-6142, for referrals, donations and volunteer offers. WSFA's coverage did not include a street address, so anyone seeking a room or hoping to help should call first.

Anyone in immediate danger should call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers confidential support around the clock at 1-800-799-7233.