MOMS STORIES

J's Story

“I was lucky enough to find Gilead House by calling local churches. My life changed in that instant.”

When I came to Gilead House I was a scared, angry and immature young woman with a toddler. I was naive without many places to turn.

I was nervous at first and rather shy. I didn’t know how I would be able to live with others and I was not used to having to answer to others. I leant a lot from the parenting classes and Cynthia, my mentor was the best example of ‘tough love’.

I spent a year at Gilead House. Now, my life is so different. I am married with another child and have my own housecleaning business. I wouldn’t be in this place without the love and care of Gilead House. I am truly grateful.

S's Story

Before I arrived at Gilead House I had a beautiful home Texas, was employed as a teacher, had two children and was pregnant with the third. However, as wonderful that looked it was truly a nightmare. I was in an abusive relationship and felt trapped. My children and I endured many visits to shelters and the abuse continued.

When I moved in I was so tired, but felt that I could begin anew. The housemother, Bettye, was very supportive and “my rock” at the Gilead House. I felt like I had an angel on my side. My children loved her.

At times I got in my own way with my pride, but the support and love helped me “step up” to my new life. I felt God was working in my life, giving me peace.

After seven months at Gilead House we were able to move to our own place. I am employed as a substitute teacher in the Novato Unified School District and the Marin County Office of Education. My children are thriving and live the life of normal kids. I thank God every day for His leading and healing and the Gilead House for saying “yes” to me and my children.

T's Story

“In the last few months at Gilead House, I have learnt the difference between surviving and thriving.”

Six and a half months ago I moved into Gilead House with my 12 year old daughter, Hannah and my 8 year old son, Joe. My journey to Gilead House has been long and there have been many bumps in the road.

My parents divorced when I was 8 years old and my mom took off. She said she didn’t want to be a mother and left my dad to raise my brother and I. Making matters worse, my dad remarried to a woman who also didn’t want to be a mother.....to me anyway. There was a lot of fighting so when I was 11 they kicked me out. I lived in Texas with my mom........ when she was there. My mom left me alone for weeks at a time with a couple of dollars and notes that said, I’ll be back in a week or so, go to school and make the money last.

I have made some bad choices but I have always worked very hard to be a good mom.

In the last few months I have been learning about the difference between surviving and thriving. I know in my heart that I am a survivor. I have survived the worst things that life has to offer and I have had to be strong to survive. Thriving is different.