My name is Shawna.* I am a single mother, and my daughters and I are survivors of domestic abuse. Over a year ago, I decided it was time to leave my husband, so my kids would not have to suffer through seeing their mother getting hurt anymore.
After being on the wait list at the housing authority for nearly two years, my kids and I could finally get our own place away from violence. Unfortunately, leaving was the easy part. The hard part was providing for my kids on my own. I never realized there were rent deposits, electricity deposits, and so many other things I needed and didn’t have as I was homeless and jobless.
My mother was the only person who could help support me and my children during this time. She found two places that helped us tremendously. One of those places was Upward Transitions. When my mother told me about Upward Transitions, I finally felt like there was light at the end of the tunnel.
I made an appointment with Ms. Terri Womack and told her everything that happened to us. She was so willing to help. If it wasn’t for Terri and Upward Transitions, I KNOW we wouldn’t have our own place, and I wouldn’t be writing this letter today.
People like me suffering from domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking need Upward Transitions. So many are still out there who need help but are scared to ask. They may not have that financial push or somewhere to turn.
I received from Upward Transitions. We need this place.
*Name and image have been changed to protect client’s identity.