A friend, my 18-month old son, and I were planning to get a place together. It sounded like a good idea at the time. Needless to say, plans did not go as we hoped. She moved into her parent's house while I put all of my belongings into storage. I no longer had a place to live, so I did what a lot of people do- I collected a few blankets and changes of clothes for my son and I, and we went to the Salvation Army.

We stayed there for a week and a half. During that time, I had no idea what I was going to do to get back on my feet. One day I was talking to a staff member about my situation, and he recommended that I call the MCYS Street Outreach Program. I was no stranger to MCYS. I first stated working with MCYS when I was 10 years old in 1992. I met with a counselor for several years and participated in their summer and group activities. I stopped my counseling when I figured out that my counselor was tell my parents what we were talking about and they were beating me for it. So I ended my relationship with MCYS felling betrayed. But as the Salvation Army staff member pointed out that the Street Outreach Program was different and "what did I have to lose", I call them for help once again.

Now, at age 20,1 was starting over again but hoping for the best, when I met Pam (the MCYS Street Outreach Counselor). She told me she would help me find a place that would help me get my life back on track. I felt comfortable and I placed my hopes on her.

Pam helped me first meet my basic needs. She took my son and I out to eat and took us to Wal-Mart. I was able to purchase some hygiene supplies and some necessary baby items. I was so relieved when Pam said to me that she has found me' a place that would help me. She drove me to Women Helping Women- the start of my new beginning. Since then, I have accomplished several of my goals. I got my Driver's learning permit, I have purchased a car, and I work two jobs.

I have really worked hard to become more that a woman with a child who needs shelter. I have created a support group of loving people that I can count on. I have learned that family doesn't necessarily have to be blood relations. Family means people who are will to go the extra mile to love each other and take care of each other. For example, WHW Board member Irma Hartwell helped me get my bank account and a part time job, the shelter helped me buy my first car. Polly Claypool, also a Board member, is setting up my drivers training course. Jim Alexander, (past WHW president 1999) even drove me to my entrance appointment for the Air Force reserves. Best of all my son is happy staying with the volunteers at WHW while I work.