Tonia Tewell Aids Polygamy Escapees in Utah

Tonia Tewell, in Draper, Utah, assists people leaving polygamous groups through her nonprofit, Holding Out HELP. She began the work in 2009, after personally experiencing hardship and feeling called to serve others. Tewell’s organization provides safe housing and support to individuals escaping the FLDS, Kingston, and Allred groups—among others—offering a haven for those seeking a new life.

She founded the organization after housing several families herself, and now oversees ten full-time staff plus contracted professionals. Donors, grants, and a state legislative stipend fund Holding Out HELP, which operates from its original headquarters, “Holly’s Home.” The organization currently struggles with limited staffing and housing capacity.

Though thousands have received assistance, the demand continues, with new individuals arriving monthly. Tewell emphasizes a non-judgmental approach, hoping clients will eventually offer support to others. The work continues as people seek freedom and a new beginning.