Salvation Army's Renewal Place

FAST FACTS:

• Salvation Army's Renewal Place offering hope to women and kids
• Thirty-one year old Brandy Buford going through program and says it's a lifesaver
• Public donations to the Red Kettle Campaign support Renewal Place

April Thompson
December 2, 2009

(Memphis 12/2/2009) "Everything was going great. I had a job, was stable, was providing for me and my family. I couldn't ask for anything more."

Brandy Buford remembers when things were good. She worked at The Barbeque Shop in Midtown and was able to support her four girls.

Then she fell ill with rheumatoid arthritis.

"I was working, I was a waitress. I couldn't do the job anymore. I couldn't lift trays, couldn't bend, couldn't stand for long periods of time." says Brandy.

Things went down hill quickly.

"We had to stay with my mother, different family members off and on the past couple of years." she says.

Brandy was referred to the Salvation Army's Renewal Place, a program designed to help women get their lives on track and care for their kids. "I was kind of stressed out the night when I got here. Then when I woke up the next day I realized this is the best place for us. Not only am I getting help with myself, I am also getting help with my kids." she says.

Brandy is in phase one of the two year program, learning the facility rules. She will also go through parenting skills.

"I am willing to learn. I want to make my kids happy. I want to be the best mother I can be. I am struggling right now, but I know I will come out of it." she says.

The Drug Rehab phase will help Brandy conquer her battle with alcohol. Then she will go after her GED.

Brandy says Renewal Place is a second chance she is grabbing on to.

"The program works if you work it. It will work for you." says Brandy.

At Renewal Place, mothers like Brandy don't have to worry about how their kids will get to school, get school uniforms, or even get the basic essentials they need.

From food and a warm bed to toys and books, it's all provided free to the families in Renewal Place.

It's because of donations from the public.

You can help by giving to those red kettles you see around town.

It's a way to give back in this season of giving.

http://www.wreg.com/wreg-salvation-army-helping-families-story,0,4095944.story

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April Thompson
WREG
December 2, 2009