“HOC welcomed me with love modeled after God’s love. They didn’t judge me, they listened, fed me, clothed me, and helped me make doctor’s appointments to heal from the effects of addiction and neglect.”

“When I arrived at House of Cherith, I was a broken mother of two who had endured 10 years in an abusive marriage that stole my happiness, friendships, self-worth, and hope.

In my despair, I turned to drugs in an attempt to find some kind of relief. Drug use quickly turned into addiction and only succeeded in tearing apart what little I had left. I lost my career, my vehicle, and became a criminal in an effort to keep my home, care for my kids, and support my habit. Eventually, I lost my home and had to send my children to live with their dad’s parents. I became suicidal, and their grandparents were granted emergency custody.

Being homeless, a criminal, and an addict only leads to three outcomes: jail, institutions, or death. Gratefully, it led me to jail, which set me on a path to HOC.

When I arrived, I didn’t believe there was any good left in the world. I believed people were monsters disguised as humans. I had no purpose, no trust, and no love—not even for myself. Most importantly, I had no idea who God was.

HOC welcomed me with love modeled after God’s love. They didn’t judge me, they listened, fed me, clothed me, and helped me make doctor’s appointments to heal from the effects of addiction and neglect. They led classes that taught me about self-love, healthy communication, budgeting, and mental health.

During those first few months, I kept waiting for the ‘monster’ I thought they were hiding to surface, but it never did. Instead, they showed me who Jesus is and surrounded me with His love.

They came to court with me and stood by my side as I asked for custody of my children. I was granted it.

HOC reignited my desire to know God and restored my trust in myself to be the safe, loving person I once was, but this time, even stronger.

Now, I move forward with a purpose: to help others who are where I once was.

I am hopeful. I am loving. And I am loved.