Sharon stood in the lobby of the community center, relief and trepidation mixed in the lines of her worn face.
I’d had the privilege of working with her during her last few months of incarceration, helping her plan for a life change when she was released. Now that she was on the outside, she had come to me looking for help to maintain her growth. We’d scribbled a 7-day plan where she could meet with someone each day to encourage and teach her how to be a successful member of society. Sharon was thrilled to begin, but voiced her unease about finding a place to live.
Her mother had no place for her to live. Motels turned her away. Homeless shelters and halfway programs wouldn’t allow her to bring along her children and niece. She told me she had a few days left at her mother’s but felt confident she could find a place for her family.
While Sharon focused on the week’s written plan, Andi, her niece, pulled me aside. She revealed to me that during her aunt’s incarceration, she had been forced to live with her father who molested her.
Within a few days, Sharon had found a home for the family. They would move in with a male friend, and he would provide a roof over their heads. It wasn’t long before Sharon began missing our weekly appointments. Then Andi stopped corresponding with me. I don’t know how Andi and Sharon are today, but I pray they are safe and still reaching out for Jesus.