My name is Kathleen. I grew up in Albany’s South End, the youngest of ten children.

My childhood was full of hardship, pain, and loss. My parents both used drugs and alcohol. When I was a young child I was physically hurt by a couple of family members. My mom would buy me marijuana for my birthday as a gift. In my teens I turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the wounds of my past.

I soon got introduced to crack cocaine and everything else went out the window. Drugs became the love of my life and I would do anything to get them. Years of addiction and homelessness followed.

I’ve slept under stairs, eaten out of trash cans, and lost everything. I didn’t pay the rent because I bought drugs instead. I couldn’t keep a home or hold on to hope. My mom was doing IV drugs, and she would wake me up to come and shoot her up. I knew this was the bottom for me and things needed to change. I was done.

After multiple health scares—including three strokes and two heart attacks—I realized God had spared my life for a reason. I needed a new start and I knew I couldn’t do that alone.

I walked away from everything and came to the Mission—again. I had been through the New Faith Women’s Program once before, but this time was different. I was ready.

Through Bible study, devotions, and support from staff and friends, I began to rebuild my confidence and trust in the Lord. I used to be whoever people wanted me to be just to fit in. Now I can be me—and they accept me for who I am.

Before, I wouldn’t open up. This time, I see God’s hand in my life. I’m growing closer to Jesus every day. I can feel His presence. I understand His Word and who I am to Him and it’s beautiful.

At the Mission, I have found more than shelter—I found family. The women here love me and would do anything for me. I never had that before. My family doesn’t show up, but my Mission family does. Jeremiah 29:11 says,

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

This verse has become truth in my life! Now, my heart is full of gratitude and purpose. Before I came here, I was spiritually poor. Now, I have everything I need to survive out in the world—God’s Word, His strength, and His people.

I’m saving money for my own place and dreaming of a future. I hope to go back to school and learn cosmetic skincare to help others find confidence and healing. I’m so thankful to the Capital City Rescue Mission for helping me grow in Christ and reconnect with my kids!

I encourage people to keep supporting the Mission and it’s programs, because women like me need help. Women and children just want a safe place and a chance to start over. Today, I am walking in freedom and faith, confident in my identity as a child of God.

Thank you for making a difference in my life!