CLIENT STORIES

SARIESE'S STORY

When I first found out I was pregnant, I was very, very scared. I just felt like I didn’t have any help, didn’t have anyone. I searched around, looking for help, and I found a place. Aid for Women shows me that there’s a power greater than myself, and that I have a reason to live. I have a purpose. I didn’t feel that way at first.

My Advocate was like my best friend. Heather’s House is a great support system. Even when you’re feeling down, they make sure that they got your back, no matter what. Before I came to Heather’s House, I was homeless – going house to house, riding the train, worrying that my things would be taken. Being a young homeless woman, I felt like I was risking my life every day.

When I saw my room with a bed at Heather’s House for the first time, that was a big deal for me. It has a rocking chair, a place to put my clothes… little things, and I really appreciate that. It’s important to have positive support during such a stressful time. Being at Heather’s House is so positive. I feel very empowered by being here because they give us choices. I like the fact that we can do things ourselves. I like to cook dinner. They ask us what we want to cook, and if it’s not in the house, they will go out and get it, no matter what the weather is like. Being here makes me feel so happy.

To all the people that support Aid for Women and the women at Heather’s House, thank you very much because you give us a second chance at life. Thank you for all your love and support because it’s greatly appreciated.

FELICE AND KAMARI'S STORY

Felice came to Aid for Women’s Flossmoor center. She was nervous about her pregnancy because she lacked insurance, prenatal care and support. Aid for Women provided her with referrals for prenatal care and insurance and offered parenting classes. Felice was excited to join the Earn While You Learn program and moms’ support groups. She welcomed a beautiful baby boy named Kamari.

“I drove past this place a few times because it was in my area. After finding out I was pregnant, I finally built up the courage to call and ask what type of services they offer. Needless to say, ever since our first phone call and initial sit-down, they have been nothing but phenomenal. I couldn’t have asked for a better support system of women to assist me during my pregnancy. There was never a time when I didn’t feel safe or comfortable talking to these ladies in person or over the phone. I have completely changed my habits to prepare for my son’s arrival, all because of the instructional videos given to me from these women. I don’t believe in coincidences. I truly believe God placed them in my path for a reason!

I’m hoping to develop a lifelong relationship with them, even after my son is born.”

MADI'S STORY

When I found out I was pregnant, I was in complete shock, even in denial for quite some time. I grew up Catholic and had always thought if something like this were to happen, my life would be over, and my family would disown me. Little did I know that at 25 and not married, my biggest fear would come true. I had just moved into my own place, my career was taking off, and I was in my first “adult” relationship. As soon as I made my discovery, I had no idea what to do. I kept this news to myself for many months, as I was contemplating how I would handle this. I finally broke down and told my family. We all went through many emotions, but the one thing my family did was turn to our faith. We spoke with our pastor many times. In one of our conversations, he suggested I contact Aid for Women. I made an appointment as soon as I could. That was the moment everything changed. I went from feeling absolute dread and confusion, to being a bit more at peace after sharing my situation and gaining more support than I ever thought I would. After my initial visit, I was placed with my Advocate. She was absolutely instrumental in my decision-making process. Rather than thinking about all the ways my life would change for the worst, she helped me realize my life wasn’t ending. It was just shifting into a wonderful new chapter. After seeking some of her recommended resources and many long chats with God, I decided to keep my daughter. It has turned out to be the decision of my life. My beautiful Charlotte was born on December 7th. I have received more love and support than I ever knew was possible from friends, family, and even strangers. Although I am raising Charlotte on my own, with the help of my wonderful family, I am determined to continue growing in my career, making sure Charlie is in an environment where she is never lacking love, and raising her to be a strong and independent girl, who perseveres through all adversity. This program has been the biggest blessing to us both. I now hope to become involved volunteering at Aid for Women, while also attending the Moms Support Groups. I hope my story encourages and supports other women who feel lost and hopeless, as I did. I could not be more grateful that my pastor led me to Aid for Women.

I went from feeling absolute dread and confusion, to being a bit more at peace after sharing my situation and gaining more support than I ever thought I would.

EMELY AND ESTRELLA'S STORY

When Emely found out she was pregnant, she felt lost, scared, and alone. Her sister told her about Aid for Women, and she immediately set up an appointment. There, she found the support she needed to choose life for her unborn baby. Because of Aid for Women, she was able to enjoy her pregnancy and gain skills along the way, learning about pregnancy and motherhood while earning material items through Aid for Women’s online education program. She attended an Aid for Women support group as well which allowed her to meet other mothers and learn new skills.

“I’m so grateful to have Aid for Women in my life. They have been so friendly and helpful. I now can focus on providing my daughter with everything she needs and always being there for her.”