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Group of women holding hands under a large tree in front of a white house on a sunny day.

A Sanctuary of Renewal and Hope: The Refuge House For Ladies

Written By: Team CMC

Dahl McDermitt's life is a testament to the power of faith in God and perseverance. Once facing personal challenges that seemed insurmountable, Dahl experienced a profound transformation that led him from despair to becoming a devoted believer.

His path of redemption didn't end with his own healing — it compelled him and his wife Melissa to reach out to others facing similar battles. With a heart full of compassion and a steadfast belief in second chances, he co-founded The Refuge House For Ladies in Eastman, GA, a community about 45 miles from Macon, GA.

"We offer a nurturing place for women struggling with abuse, addiction and other harmful habits," said Dahl, describing the program as one deeply committed to holistic recovery that comes from faith in God. "Our hope is that we can help them find the courage to truly transform their lives."

The Refuge House For Ladies believes genuine change begins with a renewed spirit. Its mission goes beyond helping women break free from addiction to focus on restoration. Women are encouraged to rebuild their lives, reunite with loved ones, and rediscover their sense of self-worth and purpose.

Staff and volunteers guide each woman through the three-phase program. The first phase welcomes women into a supportive community where emotional and physical stability are prioritized. Faith-based counseling and mentorship offer ongoing encouragement.

As women progress through the program, emphasis expands to rebuilding relationships and overcoming past trauma and hurts. For many, addiction has created distance from children and family. The Refuge House For Ladies recognizes this pain and helps mothers and children mend relationships to find strength in one another again.

Reentering society brings its own challenges, so The Refuge House For Ladies built six duplex-style transitional homes on donated land. These living spaces offer women the security to adjust gradually, fostering independence while still providing connection and practical help.

There are numerous stories of triumph and renewal, including Ginger, whose life was reshaped at The Refuge House For Ladies. After years of addiction, she found faith, rebuilt relationships, and is now a mentor to others walking the same path. Ginger, who completed the program and went on to open Living Tree in Warner Robbins, GA, also helps other women when they need it most.

The Refuge House For Ladies is a living testimony to the power of compassion, faith, and community. They do not charge ladies for the program and never turn a lady away because she can't afford the program. The Refuge depends on God to supply all their needs, through people.

"We are blessed to be vessels of God's work, and through that we have been able to help hundreds of people since 2015," says Dahl. "We thank the kindness and generosity of people who believe in changing lives for 10 years of support — and counting."

To learn more visit https://www.refugehouseforladies.org/.

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About Cingo: The name Cingo means to surround and secure, conveying the company's commitment to home protection. The company has been protecting families in the Southeast since 1974. It provides home protection services throughout Georgia and South Carolina, including Atlanta, Augusta, Charleston, Douglas, Dublin, Milledgeville, Savannah, Vidalia, Waycross and all points in between. Cingo was named a Best Place to Work in Georgia by Georgia Trend Magazine and listed as a National Best & Brightest Company to Work For. Learn more at www.cingohome.com.