I never imagined I would find myself in such a difficult situation, but after years of enduring an unhealthy marriage, I finally made the brave decision to leave. My husband had subjected me to physical, emotional, financial, and mental abuse, and when I took my children and left, I had nothing but the clothes on our backs. He had made it clear that if I left, I wouldn’t be able to take anything with me, hoping it would force me to return.

Arriving at Hope’s Door changed everything for us. The support we received through AAFV and Hope’s Door was invaluable. With the help of a dedicated case manager, I began to take steps to rebuild my life. While living in the shelter, I looked for work, attended the classes provided, and counseling. I also met with an attorney to navigate the divorce process. My focus was on my children, supporting and caring for them without their father’s or extended family’s help.

As I progressed in the shelter, I felt more empowered. I eventually secured a full-time job and enrolled my kids in the Hope Lane Learning Center. I continued to attend counseling sessions, which provided me with the tools I needed to create a safe and happy environment for my family.

As my time at the shelter ended, I secured transitional housing through AAFV’s housing program. With the added support that two years in transitional housing gave me, we “graduated” to permanent housing. I continued working full-time with my kids now in school, and I’m even putting myself through school to earn a degree to start a career I’m passionate about.

Looking back on my journey, I feel immense pride in my achievements. I am grateful for the support I received through AAFV, which helped me believe in myself again and create a better future for my children and me.