Anna

Anna’s extraordinary story is testament to the power of God’s love and the ability to overcome tremendous obstacles. Her childhood was a blur of abuse, drugs and drinking. She was molested at an early age and as her caregivers spiraled downhill, she was forced to fend for herself. Lost, lonely and afraid, Anna gave into the world of drugs and alcohol. Most of her adolescent and young adult life was spent in a drunken haze. It wasn’t until she had given birth to her second child, Montez, and was living in a physically abusive relationship that she realized she had to get help.

Even though Anna was ready to seek a better life, she didn’t know where to turn. Fortunately, she moved into a house with another family who was familiar with The Salvation Army. After learning about the types of healing programs the organization offered, Anna packed herself and Montez and fled from her destitute life.  

Anna and Montez entered Renewal Place, a two-year drug and alcohol rehabilitation program for women and their children, with nothing but the clothes on their backs. For 16 months she found encouragement, safety and a sense of hope she had never known before. Working with psychiatrists and other staff members, Anna was able to come to terms with the demons from her past.

After significant progress was made, Anna left The Salvation Army to live independently once more. For several years, everything was going well. She was working two jobs, was living in a two bedroom apartment and Montez was growing into a playful toddler. However, bliss did not last long. As the economy struggled, Anna lost her jobs and was unable to continue to pay for the apartment. She and Montez were homeless again.

Anna found open arms at The Salvation Army’s Emergency Family Shelter. She and her son were able to live at the shelter for several months. During this time she worked with staff members to secure a safe, stable residence, participated in financial counseling and parent training. Her time spent at The Salvation Army gave her the motivation to live a righteous life, for herself and for Montez.

“It is my newfound strength in God, the look in my son’s eyes and my friends at The Salvation Army that keep me on the straight and narrow,” said Anna. “The entire staff at both Renewal Place and the Emergency Family Shelter worked tirelessly with me to get my life in order and I will forever be grateful. It’s the most wonderful place in the world.”

Anna has been sober for nearly six years, owns a two-story townhouse and works as a line cook at the University of Memphis.  Montez, now seven-years-old, is beginning first grade in the fall.

“I am not proud of some of the choices I have made in my life, but I have been able to come to terms with them,” said Anna. “I try to live each day making God and my son proud. I can’t regret the past because it led me to the angels who saved me.”