Jamilah grew up in a world of fear and anger. “My dad was very abusive to my mom,” she says. “My childhood was so chaotic.”
She was traumatized, but there was no one to help her process her pain, and she was left with deep, emotional wounds. In her 20s, Jamilah was drawn into an abusive relationship. It took a heavy toll. “I became depressed and started drinking,” she says.
Then she had children of her own and her love for them led her to turn her life around. Jamilah got sober, left her abusive boyfriend and found a good job. But, eventually, a lifetime of unprocessed trauma led to a mental breakdown and Jamilah relapsed. “I lost my job, I couldn’t pay the bills and I ended up homeless.”
She wanted to give her children a wonderful childhood, the kind she had longed for. But she knew she needed help to turn her life around, so she sent her kids to live with her sister. Then she came to the Rescue Mission.
Here, Jamilah found a warm bed, nutritious meals and the support of our compassionate staff. “They made me feel welcome and optimistic about changing my life.”
Through Bible studies, faith-based classes and counseling, Jamilah grew spiritually and found healing for her emotional wounds. “I strengthened my faith, learned how to apply the word of God and put my life back together piece by piece.”
When she knew she could be the mother her children needed, they joined her here at our Center for Women and Children. Now, Jamilah is looking forward to finding a job and a home where she can raise them in stability and love. “I’m hopeful and optimistic about the future,” she says with a smile.
“I’m a new woman, strong and confident.”
This Christmas, Jamilah and her children are experiencing the gifts of peace and hope for a brighter future. Thank you for sharing the blessings of God’s love with them! “I was sad and broken, but the Rescue Mission renewed my faith in God and life.”
To read this issue of Bay Area Hope, click here.
Help other people like Jamilah…
Jamilah’s story of hope and healing is inspiring. Our long-term recovery programs exist to help other men and women find healing. Will you help provide this help to others?