Child Sponsorship Real Life Stories

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Gracie Lynne, Heritage Home

My life before CityTeam International Heritage Home was a complete disaster. It all started with my childhood, how I was raised, the role models I had, and the horrifying experiences I went through. I had been through so much by the age of 14 that I dealt with my feelings of anger, sadness, fear and even happiness by using drugs. That’s how my story begins.

Gracie Lynne

I ran away numerous times and was in and out of Juvenile Hall until I was 18 years old. After that I got deeper into my drug addiction. I was homeless and doing anything to feed my addiction. The next thing I knew, I was pregnant, homeless and living in an abandoned trailer with no food, water or heat. One morning I woke up and realized I needed help. For once in my life, I put someone else first: my daughter. Something inside me told me to call my dad and ask for help. Four hours later, I was on a bus and then on the internet, looking for a place for pregnant women. I left everything behind; drugs, my boyfriend and even old memories. I called Heritage Home, went for an interview and was accepted an hour later. I walked out with a big smile on my face, saying “Thank you!”

While being at Heritage Home, I have discovered who my higher power is, God. God has helped me with my addiction and with my daughter. He has given me strength, courage and willingness to change my whole outlook. He has given me life and helped me accept myself and others.

My life has changed dramatically since coming to Heritage Home. The program staff and volunteers have taught me many life skills including: parenting skills, relationship skills and financial planning. I’ve learned how to be independent; how to view things from another perspective and how to overcome my addiction through the twelve-step program. In addition, I have received baby clothing, bottles, blankets and a fresh start for my new baby. Most importantly, Heritage Home has given me the right skills to become a good mom to Gracie Lynne, my beautiful daughter.

Thank you!