YouthHope Foundation | PO Box 7803 Redlands, CA 92375 US
2022 Stories
A Glimmer of Hope
I don’t ever remember feeling safe. From a small age, I have always had fear. My dad has been molesting me and my sister for as long as I can remember. He’s a terrible man.
One day a few years ago in the middle of the night, my mom woke me and my siblings up and said that we had to go. We drove for hours and hours and ended up in California and have been here ever since. I didn't speak English and I don’t have the proper paperwork to be here. But I’m safe from my dad. I know he can’t get me.
I found out about YouthHope from school. They knew how behind I was and how our resources were limited. I walked in scared. My dad caused me to not trust anyone. Keep everyone at an arms length.
As I continued to show up to YouthHope, I started getting more comfortable. Everyone was so nice. No one was pushy. They gave me the space I needed, but reassured me that they were there for me.
It took me months, but I final got brave enough to share my story. I knew that I couldn't continue to live in fear and anxiety so I shared.
Heidi immediately asked me how YouthHope could help. She offered many resources and I decided that therapy was the best choice at the time.
They found me a therapist that specialized in trauma and I have been going for a few months now.
I feel like I can breathe a little easier now. I’m confident in myself, not as anxious, and am looking forward to the future.
YoutHope helped me find a glimmer of hope for the future. I may not know what is ahead, but I know that with the people around me, I can face whatever is in store.