Jane’s Story

*Name changed to protect identity

Growing up, I was an only child and got everything I ever wanted. I was close with my parents, and we attended church regularly. 

I had a great life with four beautiful children, but my life took a drastic turn, and I started getting into trouble. I ended up in prison for three years and lost everything. My mom died while I was in prison, and I wasn’t able to attend her funeral. I lost the ability to see my kids. And just 11 months after I got out of prison, my dad died from cancer. My parents were my best friends. It was rough, and this is when my homelessness began. 

I found myself living in a tent in the streets of Atlanta, and in an abusive relationship where we were both doing meth. I was surviving, but I didn’t like the life I was living. The nights were cold, and I knew that I needed to get out. After a year of living this way, I called an ambulance for help and as a way to escape my current circumstances. They brought me to My Sister’s House, and I finally felt like I could actually breathe. It was such a blessing. 

At My Sister’s House, I began attending classes and volunteering my time as a way to pay it forward and help out. I have been here for a year now, and my life has changed tremendously. I am now focused on furthering my future and finding an apartment of my own, where I can see my kids. I know that my mom and dad would have wanted to see me succeed and have a decent, comfortable life. 

“Before I ended up at Atlanta Mission, I didn’t really believe in God. But coming here, opened my eyes and I realized that I have to rely on God.” 

Sometimes I will say that I am lucky to have ended up at Atlanta Mission, but really I am just so blessed. Everybody here lifts is uplifting and there for you if you ever need to talk to them about anything. They are my people.

God got me through that year in a tent and my time in prison. 

God will get you through everything.