Kim and her 12-year-old son, Eric, came to the Haven of Hope shelter after experiencing both physical and emotional abuse at the hands of Eric’s father. They arrived at the Haven tired, broken and completely exhausted.
During her time at the shelter, family advocates were able to work with Kim and help her rebuild her life. She was able to get her youngest son, Kyle, from his father, who lived out of state, and bring him back home with her. She located a job, was able to save some money, and purchased a vehicle so she could continue to get to work. While here, she diligently searched for housing and eventually secured a safe place for her family. Her spirit was renewed and her outlook on life changed.
Kim left the shelter in May and continues to build upon the successes she experienced while at the Haven. She has kept in contact with staff members and has continuously expressed her thanks and gratitude for the services she received and the second chance at life that she seized with the help of HOPE staff members.
Below is a letter from Kim to the HOPE Coalition staff members:
I just wanted to say thank you so much for letting me stay. It really means a lot to know that somebody does care. The only person I had before was my friend, Sara, and her mom – and that’s all I had for a long time. It hurts to know your mother won’t even take you in when you are the only child she has left, but somebody else with a warm heart and open arms will. I know when I first came here I was sitting on the couch crying my eyes out wondering what I was going to do next but now I am leaving with a smile on my face! I am not scared to say you guys are my family because you really are. You’ve helped me so much making friends and setting my goals and one was getting my son back and not it’s going to happen!. I will never forget you guys. I will always remember you and you have all earned a special place in my heart. Thank you so much everyone and keep up the good work!
-Kim