Safehouse created an environment in which I had the opportunity to change my life. One of the most important elements was learning to have relationships with other women. While living together and supporting each other, we healed. For many of us, before Safehouse, all we had was a tragic existence, and now we live rich, full lives. Coming together to participate in the Alumni group keeps us connected, allows us to give and receive support from each other, and most importantly, it allows us to share in our joys in life. We inspire each other.

When I look back upon the first day I arrived at SafeHouse, I see how my life has taken many different turns. Once a homeless, addicted, abused sex worker with very little hope – my life has changed! Hope and peace has been restored. I now have my family back and not one, but two great jobs helping other women to heal. I have been blessed with the option to go back to school, working toward a degree in Social Work. But, I am most grateful for the wonderful women who helped me and cheered me on every step of the way.

On December 22, 2005, I moved into SafeHouse. On Christmas day there were 20 presents under the tree with my name on them. I was amazed. They treated me better than my family ever had. I arrived non-functional and so broken in mind, body, and spirit that I fantasized about chopping my body into pieces. I heard stories that chilled me to the bone. I have witnessed deep pain -- my own, and the pain of the women I lived with. SafeHouse prepared me to live a decent life. I was babied, parented, guided, pushed and loved back to health at SafeHouse. They helped me heal emotionally, spiritually, physically. I was directed to Miner Miracle (a non-profit that helps clothe people making a transition). The day I came home from there, an employer called. I was ready in an hour and got the job where I currently work today.