Single mother overcomes hardship, no longer 'un-housable'
Lauren, 40, lived in darkness for much of her life, battling addiction, mental health issues, physical abuse, and homelessness.
Several years ago, the single mother spent five months living in a shelter for victims of domestic violence. Her daughter lived with her during the final month, at which time Lauren began searching for a way out and a better life.
“I worked hard to get on housing lists but I hit barriers because of my past,” said Lauren, who also has two sons. “I was very un-housable.”
After months of roadblocks and dead ends, she received a life-changing call from The Salvation Army. One of our case managers informed Lauren that she could move into a Salvation Army permanent supporting housing unit. The Salvation Army operates dozes of these units throughout the Twin Cities, with residents paying on a sliding scale and receiving professional case management services.
“I was in tears,” Lauren recalled. “I was going to get the help I’d been praying for and working so hard to get.”
Lauren moved in on April 1, 2021, and has been making positive steps ever since. She has been sober for four years and now has all three of her kids living with her under one roof.
“Today I have a happy, healthy quality of life – better than I ever thought possible,” Lauren said. “Each day, I work hard to make good new habits. I have the confidence to tackle any barriers thrown my way.”
She is grateful for the help she received thanks to your support of The Salvation Army.
“When you donate to The Salvation Army, it gives someone like me a chance at life again,” Lauren said. “I’m happy and healthy for the first time in my life. I couldn’t be more grateful.”
Please join The Salvation Army by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer. With your help, we can show families in need that there is Love Beyond their most difficult hardships.