Before I was accepted into the Rescue Mission’s Hope for Women program, I had been living in my car. As I packed up my things to enter the program, I kept making excuses to myself about why I couldn’t do it. When I got there, I was feeling so angry. Every day I found a different reason to give up, go back on the street, and get high. BUT THEY NEVER GAVE UP ON ME! I saw what it was like to have people who cared about me and wanted to see me make it without gaining anything from it.

By the time I left the program, I had a smile on my face more days than not because of the help and support of the people at the Rescue Mission. Every morning someone would talk me out of leaving, and today I am beyond thankful. Another person helped me to see a different way of life. Instead of making excuses, I was taught how to find reasons why I could do them. I had great support and was held accountable by the people God placed in my path. Another blessing was that people had my back through all my angry days, and looked out for my dog when it was time for the next chapter of my story.

Today I am a drug and alcohol counselor for a women’s support program. I have over a year clean from drugs and alcohol. I have a sponsor, and I am working on my 4 steps. I live in an apartment and am an active mother again with all 4 of my beautiful children back with me.

Without the people at the Merced Rescue Mission, I don’t think I would be where I am today. I am living my life again and not just existing because the people at Merced Rescue Mission gave me a chance and believed in me. Most importantly, they never gave up on me. Every day at my job, I give my clients the same love and dedication that I got from them. I thank God daily for putting them on my journey. THANK YOU SO MUCH!