How Hanna Found True Meaning in Her Life

I was tired physically and tired of feeling empty. I had no hope for the future—no hope at all. I was tired of using drugs and alcohol, and going in and out of jail. My relationship with my children was non-existent. I felt empty, hollow, and I had no connection with people. I didn’t even know how to talk to people.

A friend of mine who had gone through the program at the Washington City Mission’s Avis Arbor Women and Children’s Shelter told me how really good the program was and that it was Christian based. Her life was turned around, and I wanted what she had!

I needed to get my life back. I wanted a closer relationship with God and with my family. I wanted to be strong again—physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Going through the program taught me to have respect for myself and to get back into having a healthy routine in my life.

While at Avis, I was able to work through a lot of my problems, and I learned to leave the past in the past, live in the present and look to the future. I learned how to manage my finances as well as develop skills such as telephone etiquette and how to process clothing donations. More importantly, I learned how to be around people again and how to communicate.

I think one of the best things that happened to me while staying at Avis Arbor was having my youngest child spend weekends with me—that was wonderful! It was a safe environment to let my family’s healing begin.

Avis Arbor helped me rebuild relationships with my family.

Now I attend church every Sunday and have just committed to a one-year Bible study every Wednesday at my church.

Very shortly I will be moving into my own place. Imagine—my children and grandchildren can visit me in MY OWN HOME! And, because I was taught at Avis how to manage my life by taking care of myself and those I love, I now can properly love and care for my family when they come to visit!

I have become a positive role model for my children; I have a strong faith in the Lord; I believe in myself. I even volunteer at Avis Arbor.

I no longer feel worthless or hopeless—there is true meaning and joy in my life!

The women who come to Avis Arbor for help have different backgrounds and a lot of pain but we all have the same goal—healing in mind, body and soul. Thank you for making a difference and helping us learn how to live productive lives!

God Bless You!
Hanna