Angela's Story
Angela's Story
On October of 2000, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, but my marriage was a mess. My ex husband was not being faithful and he threatened me many times NOT to have this baby. At 6 months pregnant, I ended up sleeping in my car. After the baby was born, my ex finally had enough and was arrested for physical abuse. He didn't allow me to have a job. I had no where to turn and he took everything: the savings account, the checkbook, and his job. He left me with an expensive apartment, no money and no way to get immediate help.
I wanted to find a job, but how do you do that with a 4 month old? The landlord wanted me OUT of the apartment. I called several area charities and they couldn't help me. I called a few churches, they all told me that I had to be a member. I called several other "non profits" but they didn't help.
My ex husband wanted very little to do with our daughter. He moved in with his girlfriend and refused to support our daughter until the "court ordered it". Again, I was stuck.
Then I called Salvation Army. I came to you out of desperation.I didn't have things I needed and my rent was late, my electricity was ready to be cut off. You stepped up. First, you provided formula for my daughter. I had none left. Then you worked with my creditors to get things caught up.. Then, you helped with a voucher to your store so that I could get some "job interview" clothes. You gave me groceries. You gave my daughter baby food, onesies and DIAPERS!!!! I was humbled, shocked and thrilled all in that moment!
Because of your counsel, your financial help, your spiritual help and your support, I was able to get back on my feet. I meet a great guy ( and married him!) who helped support my college dreams. My parents stepped up to help babysit my daughter.
Shortly there after, I was able to find a place to live, and a job. I saved the money from that job to help get through college. I became a Nationally Certified Sign Language interpreter and I work . My daughter is going to be 18 years old next week. I remarried to a wonderful Christian man who adopted my daughter and loves her like his own child. My daughter is a wonderful, hard-working student.
You were the answer to my prayers and a huge blessing in my life. I left the church that told me that I couldn't divorce. I have found a church that is now biblical and serves God and loves Jesus.
Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." While my ex- husband tried to destroy me and our marriage, God built a better future for my daughter and I. Salvation Army was part of it and I thank God for you.
Every Winter, in my hometown, my family rings bells for the Red Kettle Campaign because I have seen and experienced with my own life how that money is used!!!! Thank you for everything you do. Thank you for helping people in situations they didn't cause, but are stuck in. Thank you for clothing my daughter when I didn't have clothes, feeding her when I had no formula left and for helping me get a step up in life.
Life is good now, God is with me each step of the way.-Angela
We are able to help people like Angela and her daughter because of the generosity of our community and people like you. Thank You. During the Christmas season, your gifts make a lasting difference. Consider making a gift today.