“Six years ago, when I was pregnant with my youngest daughter, Honesty, I fled with my children from their father to a domestic violence shelter. We were there for awhile but our allotted time to stay was running out and I didn’t know what to do. We ended up setting up residence in an abandoned Detroit home.
At that point, all I could think about was bringing my family to safety and stability. That’s when I went to The Children’s Center for help.
My son, Darryl, who is now 11, used to have violent outbursts and disregard for authority. I believe it was because of his father’s substance abuse and physical abuse towards me. Through Darryl’s work with his therapists at The Children’s Center, he has come so far. He is now a very polite young man.
While my family’s emotional health was improving, I was still being discriminated against due to our living situation and poverty. I fought with Child Protective Services for two and a half years. The Children’s Center was there for me the entire time. They helped to advocate for me and prove that I was doing everything in my power to keep my children safe, happy, and healthy. I truly believe that The Children’s Center is the reason my family is still intact.
Eventually, I obtained the deed to my home and fought the state successfully to keep my children with me. It has been a tough battle.
Our time at The Children’s Center has taught me that if you think there is no way out, reach out for help. The Children’s Center can bring things to the table you didn’t even know you needed. As much as you’re willing to fight for your own child and your own family, The Children’s Center is willing to fight that much for you too.”
