An eviction notice--especially to a single mother with three young children--can look like the end of the world. But Joyce felt lucky. Although her sister had an upcoming move out of state planned, in the meantime, she could take Joyce’s family in. Certainly they’d be able to find affordable housing before her sister moved to Texas.

 

Finding a new apartment was a lot tougher than Joyce had bargained for. And when her sister moved last June, Joyce had no one else to turn to. That’s when she dialed “211” for help and got a referral to Joy House, our family shelter.

 

 

Within two months, Joyce graduated from our New Life program and enrolled in our Fresh Start program, which includes parenting classes, among others. She has been amazed at the positive changes she has seen in herself and her family! “I used to get so angry with (my children)”, she admits. “Now, I’m learning different ways of dealing with them, like giving them options or taking away privileges instead of yelling at them.”

 

One-on-one Bible studies also make a profound impact on Joyce. “I’m learning a lot about Jesus. I’m finding myself more on the right path and seeing how I fit into the scheme of things,” she says. Her three children--Corey, Antonice and Alauna--enjoy learning Bible verses and going to church. “We’re a close-knit family,” says Joyce, “and now we have a close connection with God.”

 

 

Because Fresh Start is a transitional living program, it provides a more stable, home-like environment which Joyce appreciates. She tells us that when she gets her own home, she plans to keep in touch with the other Fresh Start families she and her children have come to know and love. “I want to see all the kids grow up! It’s a real family thing,” she enthuses.

 

Speaking of “family things”, Joyce looks forward to spending this Easter with her children, as it has a new, special meaning this year.

 

Joyce extends her gratitude to you for making Joy House and its programs available to families in crisis. “No words can really express my thanks! I feel like they really care about me at Joy House. I’m not just a face in the crowd.”