At just 14 years old, Elma Davis stepped out of a car with two black eyes and a gash on her face. It was the day of a fashion show, and she sat silently in a makeup chair while adults covered her wounds with concealer. No one asked what had happened. No one offered help.
That silence became a defining moment. “I remember the excruciating pain of makeup being put into an open cut,” Davis said. “But what hurt more was that no one even cared to ask.” Now, Davis is turning that pain into purpose.
From Survivor to Advocate
At 21, Davis had her first child and made a life-changing commitment: her daughter would not repeat the cycle of violence. That moment ignited her lifelong mission—to understand, break, and prevent the patterns of domestic abuse.
She launched her own nonprofit nearly 20 years ago, focused on providing immediate support, long-term healing, and safe housing for domestic violence survivors in Atlanta.
“When you’re going through domestic violence, you feel alienated,” she explained. “The abuser tells you that no one cares—and too often, it feels true.”
Support That Saves Lives
- Davis’s foundation offers a full spectrum of support services:
- Free licensed therapy for one year
- Emergency housing assistance (hotel stays, rapid rehousing)
- Financial help including food, utility, and rental support
- Support groups that connect survivors to one another and reduce isolation
By offering these services at no cost, the organization helps survivors rebuild from the inside out—with dignity, safety, and community.
The Real Numbers Are Higher
While official reports say 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men are impacted by domestic violence, Davis argues that the true numbers are far higher.
“Only 5% of cases are reported. That means 95% aren’t. When you do the math, it’s more like 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men,” she said.
She also emphasized that domestic violence affects every community—from LGBTQ+ individuals to the elderly and those living with chronic illnesses. It’s the #1 issue on college campuses, and its reach goes far beyond what many people assume.
A City That’s Listening
Davis praised Mayor Andre Dickens for bringing new visibility to the issue in Atlanta, helping to remove stigma and spark action.
“To have a mayor now who is shining a light on domestic violence—it makes the conversation easier, and it’s phenomenal,” she said. “Let’s not just talk about it—let’s do something about it.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Visit www.atlantaga.gov/domesticviolence to find services, support, and safe housing resources.
To support Elma Davis’s organization or volunteer, contact the Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion.
