In 2009, my boyfriend passed away. It was very devastating. I didn’t realize until that point that I had underlying issues that I wasn’t dealing with. My parents were drug addicts and I had those character traits and personality flaws as well. When he died, it just hit me really badly.
After my boyfriend’s death, I turned to drugs and alcohol to cope. That took me downhill really fast. My son had just turned 3 when he was removed from my custody and I went to jail. When I was released, I went in and out of shelters until I completed rehab. It took me 13 months to get my son back. In the process, I ended up having another baby.
I looked for and found the House of Hope, which is an all-women’s program. I knew that’s where I needed to be at that time in my life. I called the Rescue Mission and they let us in.
One of the things I really love about being here is the fellowship of the women. They’re all in the same place as me — we’re all trying to get back on our feet. This is the last step before we’re on our own. I’ve been in the program a little over a year and have really come to appreciate the staff. My case manager is very attentive. She’s kind, and she tells you if something is a good idea or bad idea. She tells me the truth.
Now I’m working as a receptionist at a mortgage brokerage. My son is 8 and my daughter is 3. They like being here because they have all the kids around and they can play together. The mothers help and support each other. Also, we really loved Christmas — it’s a lot of fun! The main thing is that being here, I feel like it’s home. If I need something I know that someone will be here to help.