Testimonies
A FRESH START FOR SINGLE MOTHERS
AND THEIR CHILDREN
PERSONAL TESTIMONIES FROM GRADUATES & ENDORSEMENTS
“The Fresh Start Program was Gods way of rescuing me from a horrible depression, as a result of a separation from my husband for abuse to me and my kids. Before I knew about this program, I had nothing to give but my sadness and loneliness. My Dear God, those amazing loving and caring ladies really loved me! They filled my every need, but more than anything God loved me and continues to do so. Thanks to the love and care, today I feel special again. My 3 children also benefited tremendously from the program. More than anything my children got their mother back. Thank you so much. You made a difference in my life!
May God bless you.” -L. Z.
Fresh Start Spring 2007
Every night that I was here, I felt so free from my worries, I felt like people know what I am going through. I am so glad someone cares about me and my son. I love to have this experience. It really give me power to have a fresh start. Thank-you so much! -L.B.
*****
I love the program. It made me think a lot. It was good that I was around single moms. I was never in a abusive relationship but I know the signs, thanks to the programs. -N. O.
*****
This program meant so much to me. Every week it was the highlight of my activities because it was the one place I knew I could get encouragement and support. I have felt appreciated here, respected and accepted. Being able to get all sorts of helpful information and share information as well, has been wonderful. -W.C.
*****
This program made me feel as though I had a place just for me. I spent and spend my whole life living and doing for everyone but myself. Finally I decided I was worth doing something for(having time to myself). It gave me an outlet to express myself, my pain, my joys, my sorrows and realizing I’m not alone ( that there are other women out there who are struggling with the same issues I am .) Thank you for allowing me the freedom to be just me. Thank you -D. M.
*****
It’s just a blessing to know the leadership. Her happiness brushes off to others. May God continue to use you mightily. The helping part is really good- that is faith in action! Well first and foremost thank-you for everything that you have done and what everyone has done for me and my family. This program is a great program for mothers, it has taught me a lot like how to be successful, how to manage my credit, how to be a better me and I have met some great mentors. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I would love to volunteer for this program! I can’t even put into words, and thank Colleen her personal story has truly inspired me, and I look forward to keeping in touch with you all. I love the emails on the jobs, housing, etc. Thank you for everything! -A.C.
*****
The Fresh Start program gave me strength and enabled me to look to the future. It taught me how to live in the now and let my past be history. It also taught me how to let my past be a stepping stone or badge of honor because I made it through and I am still here, still standing. It was a release, It was not a coincidence that I came here. I am going through one of the toughest times in my life. The support from the ladies has honestly helped me get through. THANK YOU!! -N.C.
*****
Coming to Fresh Start Mom has been one of the best things I have ever done for myself. I have always been so busy with work and family responsibilities that I have never had a chance to make friends. This is the first social group I joined. I met some great people who supported me at a time when my own family was against me.
This group helped me make a decision that directly affects not only my own life but my children’s and my other family’s lives as well. If I had not talked to you and other members of the group, I think it would have taken me further five or six years to make the decision that I made today.
You might not realize what you are giving to women like me. You are literally saving lives. When I get my project done, I will come and talk to women; and I would love (in fact I am craving) to join you in helping women financially and spiritually. -R.S.
*****
Being new to the Richmond area and a single mother for just under two years I was very excited to learn that there was a program specifically geared towards educating and assisting single mothers. The program allowed me the opportunity to meet some strong wonderful women who are succeeding in making the best of a situation that circumstances have placed before them. Whether a new or a long time single mom……..Fresh Start offers something for both. To my surprise my girls enjoyed and looked forward to going to class with me each week. All of the sessions were great, but I especially enjoyed the sessions “Parenting on Your Own” with Donna and “Beauty out of Ashes”. The testimonies reaffirmed what I have always believed and that is “THE PURPOSE OF LIFE…………….IS A LIFE OF PURPOSE” Colleen and all of their hardworking supporters are doing amazing work and many blessings for continued success of the program. - A.M.
Testimonies From Fresh Start Fall – 2007 –Winter 2008
South City of Richmond / Gates Of Faith Ministries
My name is Libby Meeks, a widow living with ALS (Lou Gerhic Disease) and raising 3 children. I have had the privilege, pleasure and blessing of not only being a participant of Fresh Start, but a Team Leader as well. As a participant I was so excited from day one that I was determine to come each week to gleam and use everything Fresh Start had to offer. Oh how grateful I am for being a part of such a positive life changing ministry. If I may say, I may have missed one or two sessions and on those days my two younger children were picked up by a Team Leader so they could still participate. They too have enjoyed and been blessed by Fresh Start. Half way through Phase 1, I knew God had placed me with Fresh Start for the purpose of bringing it to the single mothers at my church and others from the south and north side of Richmond. After a year of planning, registering and meeting with a wonderful Team of women we started our very own Fresh Start at my church, Gates of Faith Ministries on September 11, 2007 and finished Phase 3 on February 11, 2008. What a privilege, pleasure and blessing to serve such wonderful mothers and their children. I truly believe they blessed me more as a Team Leader than as a participant. It’s truly more rewarding giving of yourself than receiving. We started with about 21 registered mothers and 36 children. Thirteen of the mothers completed Phase 1 and 2 and about 8 completed all 3 Phases. These mother has made a commitment to stay together as a group and keep in contact. They will also be returning in September ‘08 to help run and facilitate our 2nd year of Fresh Start. Sincerely, Libby Meeks
*****
My name is G. Jones of Midlothian, VA and I had the great pleasure of being an encourager for quite a few of the “Fresh Start Sessions”. Personally I feel this program is long over due and very much needed. There are so many women that are literally hiding within their pain of being battered, disappointed, and left to care for their children when at times I know they needed care themselves. This program is a “Great Outlet” where you actually feel apart of another single mom who’s going through or have gone through your exact situation. The sessions started out giving the women the opportunity to speak out of their hearts and identify with the pain and disappointments in their lives, but as the weeks went by, you could actually sense a positive change in the demeanors of most of the women. One thing for sure there’s strength in numbers and I believe this program should expand as much as possible. You would be surprise at how communication can make a world of difference in these young mothers lives and their children. I strongly believe that mothers who have hurt and even murdered their children for the most part, would have surely benefited from a program such as “Fresh Start”. I recall at a practical session when the speaker spoke on “Finances” and was giving the mothers ways of saving by cutting back on things that weren’t absolutely needed. I recall one of the mothers teen age daughter, said to her mom, “we don’t have to have cable mom”. Smile Now, the teen did have another motive in mind, she wanted and needed a computer. But the moral of the story is, just from listening to the speaker this young person was able to see the importance of unnecessary spending. Much Continued Success!!
*****
What a Blessing to have a Fresh Start !This program was such a blessing to me and my kids. I appreciate everything you all have done. These women have touched my life and sowed a seed in me. Everyone’s testimony just really encouraged and gave me even more Hope. I really enjoyed being able to talk to and vent to the other women. I’m not really sociable, but God is changing me.
Thanks again and I look forward to the next phase. -C. C.
*****
The women’s meetings have been truly a blessing to me.The topics have been encouraging, very uplifting to ones spirit.I have been able to talk with other women truly God is doing great things. - L.A.
*****
In this time of meeting I was able to learn some valuable information and meet new people. I will take what I have learned and share it with others in my ministry. -A.A.
*****
The Lord really encouraged me with the support group. The testimonies of God’s great deliverance was most encouraging! I looked forward to coming every week. I am sure that what I learned will be put into practice and I look forward to starting a similar group at my church. -S. V.
*****
I am grateful to be a part of this faith-based single mothers group. You have provided all of us with knowledge through many worthy topics of discussion all lead by women of God! We have all fellowshipped together through food and sharing of the word. You all have been powerful women of god women of your word (sometimes that is hard to find these days) You have made me feel like part of your family which made missing my family a whole lot more tolerable. I appreciate you all so much for that! You allowed me to make a Fresh Start in Virginia with all of you! May God smile above you for all you do for others. -Sincerely, E. C.
*****
I just wanted to say how I witnessed the Lord’s hand on our Fresh Start Women. I was a volunteer/facilitator/encourager. The Bible Lessons in all three phases were so good that I had to remind myself that this was for the single moms to glean and to open up. It showed the women that Bible Study can be relevant. I believe our women grew stronger and closer not only to the Lord, but to other women too. We saw many walls crumble down. We saw souls snatched from the enemy’s grip. We saw/ heard of loved ones being healed and new homes moved into! We also received 2 new angels (born) amongst our original crew. Yes, it was a sacrifice for me to leave my husband and children (on Monday nights); but you know, it’s not about me! My prayer is that Almighty God - Jehovah Jireh - Our Father Which ART in Heaven will grant every funding need that you are seeking. I look forward to seeing how God is going to move in September. I pray in the name of Jesus for your strength and a hedge of protection to be build all around you. -Be Blessed, Raquel E.
*****
Hi my name is Sharon and divorce happened, so now I am a Single Mother. I praise God for the ministry of Fresh Starts, it was a haven to keep me in the spirit of hope and faith. I really enjoyed the fellowship and Christian ministry. It gave a special place for me and my son to go to on Mondays. A place for love and a place of new beginnings. I really enjoyed the fellowship at Gates of Faith and have connected with several sisters there. I attend another church and feel the love of the Lord there too, but its something very special about ministry to single Christian women. Many of us have been rejected by men or abused and simply made poor decisions. This ministry was an example of Jesus meeting the Woman at the Well for me. I have walked with the Lord for many years now and this journey back to single hood has been a challenge. Nevertheless, I stand firm in the Love of my Savior and walk in faith. I have praticed chasity since my separation 3 years ago and this what is required by the Lord ( I do so want to please Him) I praise God to know of other single women sold out for Jesus who seek to be kept as well. I just praise God for this ministry and so does my son. He always looked forward to his “Play Group” on Mondays. I plan to stay connected to help others on this road. It is so important for all of the body of believers to be ministered to and Fresh Start has done just that for me and many others. It is really a wonderful and necessary program in our world today! God bless Fresh Start! -Lovingly submitted by Sharon of Richmond, VA
Fresh Start Chesterfield / Southside Fall 2006 Session
Fresh Start Ministry for single mothers has been a tremendous blessing for me and my children. Thank you for coming to the Southside of Virginia with such a life changing empowering program. This program has revived me for life again. The topics discussed were relevant. Being placed in a position of being a single mother of three young children to raise solely by myself left me despondent. Because of the display of love and acceptance shown by the group leader, it has helped me to see life in a different way. I am more hopeful. I really believe I can make it. Please never stop changing single mothers lives and their families!!- T. H.
*****
I learned things from each Fresh Start Guest Speaker. I believe the most memorable presentation was by “Beauty Out of Ashes” by Colleen. The story of her triumph as a single mother and her escape from abuse was very encouraging. I am interested in volunteering. -A.B.
*****
I am a teenage single mother who really couldn’t get any good information from peers my age until I came to Fresh Start. Being the youngest at 18 in my group helped me a lot because I had the chance to listen to a lot of “older” women and gave me a chance to know what to do and to do at an earlier age than later. I’ve learned not to hold things inside and always keep my child first.- J. L.
*****
I am a single mother of five children who joined the Fresh Start program in Fall 2006. Since I began the program I have received much inspiration from all the visiting speakers. At one time my refrigerator broke and I had no where to store the baby’s formula or any food. I called the program coordinator and they were able to acquire a used refrigerator for me. I was in tears. I could not believe that I did not have to come up with $500.00 for a refrigerator. I had just prayed and asked God for a “break!” I felt as though I could not handle any additional stress. I was extremely broke and had zero dollars in the bank. The refrigerator was clean and beautifully maintained. It was bigger and better than the one I had. I have never been happier. God always has a ram in the bush!!! -K. B.
Fresh Start Ashland Fall Session 2006
I want to thank you and all of your volunteers for all the love, encouragement and support you showed me and my daughter, Jasmine. Attending the Fresh Start for Single Mothers is the best thing that I could have ever done for me and my daughter. It definitely changed the direction my life has taken for the better. I learned so much from this program and it has instilled a new-found hope inside of me for I know that I am not alone in facing the challenges of single-parenting. Thank you for everything and keep up the great work! -P. M.
*****
God brought me here for a reason. The encouraging words, the friendly smiles, and the wonderful women I have found are amazing. I look forward to Monday nights. I appreciate the support and the love that I have found in this group. I will never forget the ladies in our group. -Kim
*****
I thank God for this program that took place in my community. It came into my life just in time. I had been going through a storm in my personal life and also struggling without a job. Being in this setting has done so much for me and my three kids, it showed me life does go on with or without a man and it goes on with or without a job. Having sweet, fun, loving women, very caring, strong women like the ones I have met inspired me so much. I am going to miss these ladies so much. I love each and everyone of them. People were trying to make me feel shame, guilt and I was feeling anger. The Fresh Start Program showed me how to lighten the load by placing these feelings in a box wrapping them up and giving it to God. Jesus will carry you in the bad times, will walk with me in the good times, and will never forsake you. -M. R
*****
I don’t think I would have found the strength or courage to get this far without the women of this group. I have learned more about myself then I even knew and that I am not alone in anything I do throughout the day and I knew someone else was standing by me I wasn’t aloneI have also learned that there are good people out there, that will not look down on me for what I have done or what I have gone through. -C.J.
*****
I’ve only been with this group a few weeks but it’s been wonderful and I’ve met several wonderful women. I have enjoyed the speakers we have had. We originally came here from a domestic violence situations the kids (my three boys and I) have been on the run from our abuser for around a month and we have been praying everyday for a safe place to find a home. We found the First Baptist Church in Ashland, VA the pastor said they had a wonderful ladies group on Monday’s called Fresh Start your welcome to attend. We came that Monday and listened to the speakers speak about domestic violence awareness and accepting ourselves. The ladies in the group were wonderful as well. We found our home. -K.I.
Fresh Start West End Location Fall Session 2006
Although I was only able to attended a few meetings this program helped me out a lot. I realize that I also had faults in my relationship with my son’s father. For a long time I blamed him for a lot, not really looking at what I had done to the relationship. I have a lot of guilt, resentment and unforgiveness but now I have the courage and support to move on as a single mother.- E.B.
*****
I have gotten a lot out of the Fresh Start program. The guest speakers were very informative. But, most of all I had developed a close relationship with the ladies in the group. I plan on attending the next session of meetings (Phase #2.) I hope I get as much as I got out of this session. Thank you personally for everything that you have done for me and my children. Please keep in touch. I love ya’ll! -A.P.
*****
Fresh Start was so hospitable. The team leader gives 100% of herself during the class and outside of the class to answer your questions. I enjoyed spending time with other single moms. It made me feel accepted and I was able to relate with other women’s issues. Our team leader needs to be promoted.- J.J.
Fresh Start Lakeside Location Fall Session 2006
The way the Lord talked to me about stress and the blessings I had every day, I wish to have more courage to do more for others. I know people share our pain and struggles with our family. I had a goal to be more patient with my son and others. Single parents are not alone. God wants to be with us everyday, He can lift the burden and show His forgiveness. I just want to say that this program got me out of the house and gave a place for my children to learn and play. I have learned many great things. Thank- you!
*****
I realized in the Fresh Start Program that no matter what I’ll be alright and my kids will be alright. If I believe in myself and have courage in myself I can better my situation and overcome it all in due time. -S.B.
*****
This program has taught me how to accept things and change my ways for the better and has given my child a place to go and learn and play. It has given me the chance to speak with other single moms that are going through the same things that I am and to know I am not alone. I appreciated it. Thank-you!
*****
Pastor Rabb and her “Beauty Out Of Ashes “ presentation was so inspirational. Thank-you! She showed me what was keeping me from moving on in my life. I am still trying to empty my “backpack” of burdens. Now, I know it’s going to be okay. Thank-you once again. -K.A.
Fresh Start 2003-Spring 2006 Sessions
I am a single mother with relatively, young twins. Finding the Fresh Start Program was one of the most profound experiences that helped me to gather the strength I needed to get back on track with my life. The women who volunteer their time are “absolute angels” ! What they have put together is unlike anything I have ever experienced before anywhere. Their love and passion for Christ are so genuine and inspiring - the church community should be proud of them and their tremendous outreach and impact. -K.C.
*****
As I reflect on the first day I attended the Fresh Start Program, everyone greeted me and my son with love and respect. As I sat there talking to everyone, thinking to myself I wished I had joined a single moms group eleven years ago. Because as a single mom your always searching for guidance of positive role models. I also realize that there is help out there for single mothers no matter what your going through. Pray to God each day for wisdom and guidance, and He will direct you to the right people for help. I’m sorry I didn’t get to attend all of the sessions, but the sessions I did attend has made me feel better about myself and my future. May God continue to bless each of you in the Fresh Start Program, and to help all single mothers in the future. Thanks for all the gifts, emails and calls of concern.
Love Althea and Asante’
*****
I would like to thank all the angels for making my four children and me feel so welcomed at the Fresh Start Program. The daily stresses of having children can be overwhelming but being single and having four kids can make that situation little more difficult. It felt so good to come to a place where you were catered to. There was always a welcoming smile at the door to take the children and whisk me away for a short while. That time allowed me to talk and fellowship with a variety of single mothers. These women encouraged me to make changes in my life so I can be the best I could be. My lightbulb went off and now I know can do whatever I put my mind to. I know there are people out there who believe in me and that are willing to help me in any way they can. Thank you for all you do and for making my children and me feel special each and every week. Sincerely yours, Shellette W.
*****
When I first started I tried to do it all on my own. I thought that I was all alone. Then I met women that had stories like me. They have let me know it was OK to ask for help. That is was OK to be afraid. They helped me a lot with furnishings for my home and contacts that will help me further along in my life. I know that will keep in touch with the new friends that I have made. I also love the fact they talked about God and how you are never alone as long as you love Him. I just can’t say enough about the program, I am so grateful that I came. -Linda J.
*****
The journey over these last weeks has been comforting, supportive and educational. It has allowed me to process things, let go of anger and begin to move forward (in the right direction.) It has also allowed me to make connections with women in similar situations. I don’t feel so alone and isolated. The program made me feel special (I haven’t felt that way in a long time) and it opened doors for me. I truly enjoyed the program and would highly recommend it to anyone facing “single parenting.” Thank-you for the great experience and support. -Shauna B.
*****
After several years of marriage, my ex-husband decided that I didn’t love him so he left me for another woman. Now my son and I moved from N.Y. to Richmond. Now as a graduate of Fresh Start, I’ve learned that I’m not alone and there are others who can relate. -Vanessa D.
*****
Participating in this group has been so helpful. I have been so wrapped up in my own situation, that I forget there are so many others. I hate that so many women are facing some of the same challenges and fears as I have, but we did gain strength through each other. This was great!- Jodie A.
*****
Every week I look forward to coming to a place where I can relate to others and not worry about being judged. It’s a comfort to find a place after searching for quite a while. The group has given me strength and faith. I go home at night feeling positive and helpful. I feel very blessed to have found Fresh Start and the great people who volunteer for the program!-Tracy A.
*****
The most important thing for me coming to this group was seeing that other people could move past the problems of being single and have happy and successful lives. Toni and Barbara in particular were very inspirational for me. It’s just wonderful to know that you aren’t the only one going though this. -A.S.
*****
Joining this group was a good group to let things go. To know I am not the only one going through problems.- Jennifer G.
*****
Before joining Fresh Start I felt hopeless, insecure and lonely. This program has changed my feelings and gave me hope and faith to know that life can be wonderful and happy. I am a stronger happier person and feel like I have a new and fresh start. It makes such a difference knowing you are cared about. Meeting everyone and hearing their stories has given me the motivation to live a more positive and spiritual life. -
-Sue F.
*****
I never had a problem with the obstacles in my life (this too shall pass). I
knew God was working in His own mysterious ways and I’ve always had a trust
in His works. My issue was dealing with society. Who in the world could ever
understand all the fear and anxiety I had when interacting with the rest of
the world. Who’s eyes could I look into without seeing pity or judgment
while roaming around here on earth? I found those eyes. A lot of pairs of
eyes in our Thursday meetings. I realized my projection of fear and anxiety
was a reflection and walking in Thursdays (albeit late), I found I could
leave those feelings (that backpack) at the door. I could rest, regroup,
laugh, and knew my social fears of rejection were as shallow as could be…
One of the best responses I’ve ever had to someone being condescending
about single mothers - never married - was to a woman who claimed to be a
Christian. She went on about how single Moms are ruining society, how they
were destroying morals and etc. I just quietly said, “Mary was a single Mom.
Joseph wasn’t Jesus’ father and Mary was pregnant before they ever got
married.” I don’t think I’d ever see someone go apocalyptic but I did. And it felt
great. The Fresh Start group helped me find that courage again. Thank you, Thank
you, Thank you. To you and all who helped make this program possible! -Elizabeth F.
*****
I wanted to thank all who was a part of my life going through hard times in life is one thing but going through it by yourself is something else and the Fresh Start program was there for me when I most needed it. I will always have a prayer open for this program because it helped me through things that are hard to tell but the Lord knows and he will bless the hands that are blessing us. This program opened my eyes and heart up and I learned so much and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks- J.S.
*****
I have so appreciated the support that is provided between the relationships that are formed by the group. The guilt, shame and pain associated with a separation/divorce could have been debilitating financially, emotionally and socially, however, this group has made it possible to survive and thrive.
The pure generosity of the host church and it’s representatives is deeply valued. -MJ
*****
I am actually thankful for meeting all of you. Being apart of the group has actually brought me peace within myself. Also encouragement because I was not alone and/or the only persons dealing with the struggles of being a single parent. And for those reasons alone I am forever grateful. -Love Always S.T.
*****
When my girlfriend gave me the flyer for the ’Fresh Start’ program, I was very skeptical. I had been separated for 18 months, and was (still am) working through domestic violence & substance abuse issues. I decided to attend, as what was there to lose. What I found was loving women trying to help other women through some difficult situations. I remember thinking are these ladies for real?? They were (and are) women from God. They brought me hope and strength, that I did not have. The children loved the classes they went to. It helped to bring my 2 boys and I together. The handy helpers were a miracle along with the teenagers. I have never seen such committed people, who knew & loved God. Of course, I know God exists, but you showed me he did not have to be vengeful and things can get better, if I let God into my life. I am still working on that realization through the graduate program and the single mothers’ bible study. The donations were awesome and greatly needed and appreciated. I think of myself blessed to have been a participant. I use the women as a role model. They are someone who will call me back and listen. I have attend the services and enjoy them, and again, my boys like the programs and the service. I still struggle each day with both the domestic & substance abuse, but I know that God is there what better proof than this program at your church. -Martha M.
*****This testimony was sent by single mom who is an Ecuadorian immigrant with 3 children…..(she is still working on her English skills)
Hi, first of all let me thank you, and I want you to know that the blessing of having a friend think about me, caring about me and my family, was gift beyond my expectations, just a while ago, and I don’t think I have the right to ask for more, you know, when I see everything you all have done for me, helping me to get out of that little box I was trapped on when I became a single mother, showing me the light, but more important yet, giving me hope, I think that is the best gift you’ve given me, I renew my faith, I believe now that God has a plan for all of us, and I also know that God has a very special plan for me and I feel much better now the future is not a dark cloud in the horizon. I found hope, my greatest gift, and all that I owe to all of you. So you ask me what I want, I’d tell you: you gave it to me already and even when I cannot tell you I don’t need anything, what I can tell you is that anything will be very appreciated because is the intention that counts.
I cannot even begin to thank to all of you for what you’ve done for me, I just wish all the blessings from heaven descend upon you and your family this holidays. - Thank you, Sandra.
*****
The Fresh Start Program was a lifesaver to me. Through the group I felt loved and supported at a time in my life when I was not feeling loved. You are truly the hands and feet of Christ. I am part of ministries in two other churches, and this by far was the most caring, most concretely helpful group. I still look through the gifts you gave at each meeting, and the Angel Tree gifts at Christmas, and bless you all each time. Thank you so much.- Love, Mary Ann R.
*****
To Everyone who worked with Fresh Start, I just wanted to say how much I appreciate all your hard work and support. The ministry the church has provided to single moms has truly been a blessing. Becoming a single mom was not a life event that I planned to accomplish in my life. I also am not good at asking for help. Therefore it is wonderful to know I have a group of wonderful women who understand. -Thank you and God Bless. -B.C.
*****
I also wanted to let you know what I think the group has done for me. I
joined the group mainly to meet people, but also to be in a group where I
felt I belonged. The group definitely filled both those needs. I made some
new friends… and I keep in touch. One of the hardest things about being a single mother is to feel a sense of belonging. I’m single, but not ree of responsibility like others. I’m a mother, but don’t have a husband to help out . This group gives those of us in this stage a sense of belonging. For some reason this year, I have felt more positive about my life than any other year in a long time. I just feel it’s “my year.” I still have many
outstanding issues with custody, support and even divorce, but am very confident that many issues will come to a close this year. This year my glass is half full, not half empty. I know in my heart that God and Fresh Start Program are responsible for that! -Mary
*****
First and foremost I would like to say Thank You Ever So Much for enhancing
my son’s & my life with your Fresh Start Program. I feel as though we have hit the love lottery. Everyone who has worked so hard (and made it look so elegant & special every week) to make my Wednesday evenings such a joy to be a part of. The graciousness & kindness has truly overwhelmed me and
renewed my hope because of faith. God has truly sent me & my son Michael at
a time so crucial into the arms of a blessing I can never say thank you
enough.
As I have observed all the women who began their journey in the program
from the very beginning. Many of them looking and feeling ashamed, quiet,
reserved, unsure, wounded, overwhelmed and you could see that everyone has a
story. It was for many a life changing moment walking through the door. Many
have just blossomed in their new chapters as more loving, caring, sharing
and most of all healing all the way. I once read that the wounded deer leaps
the highest and I found that so profoundly true.
As I previously stated everyone has a story and I would like to share a part
of mine. I was very deeply in love with my son’s father & after many
attempts to get him help with his various issues it came to be a life’s
defining moment for me. I won’t share the details out of respect for my son
but I refer to as “Black Sunday”. By the grace of God because all I could
possibly do was pray during the ordeal I became an official survivor of
abuse. I was few months pregnant with my son & I promised God that day if he
spared me and my little guy’s life I would never ever let anyone hurt us
again. All I had were the clothes on my back & a deep faith in God and as I
walked out the door feeling as though a boulder was lifted off my shoulder.
I truly became stronger after that day and I lived out of my car for 2
weeks at the safest place I could find. I had to change my first name to my middle to outwit my abuser so I could keep a job without his drama. I worked 7 days a week, 2 jobs just so I could give me & my little baby a new peaceful start. I worked up to the weekend I had him & went back to work the week after.
We have been living one day at a time since then.
All of the people involved in Fresh Start will never truly know how they
have positively affected all of those wounded deer’s as we all embarked on a
life’s defining moment together. To think it all started with a phone call
to whom I so lovingly call “Sunshine” and she just started
the ball rolling. I am currently fighting several neurological disorders due to not fairing so well
on Black Sunday. God has showed me the wounded deer does leap the highest.
I just want to thank everyone again for touching our hearts. It has meant so much to my son Michael & I.
Sincerely and Lovingly, Ms. Colleen G.
*****
September 10, 2003 is a date I will never forget. It was the FIRST session of a newly formed group called A Fresh Start for Single Mothers. I had seen a sign at a local grocery store and thought “GREAT ! Just what I have been looking for, a “male-bashing group” where I can go vent my frustrations out at”. What it turned out to be was a lifesaver that kept me from suicide and my precious daughter from a worse fate. I thought I knew it all when I walked into my first session, quickly things started changing for me. This lady stood up and told us a story that she called a “Mom’s Minute” that touched me. I mean she REALLY knew what it was like to be a single mom and wasn’t one of those “do-gooder” Christians. Then another lady spoke and another and I realized this was not a “male bashing” group, but a “survivor” group of women that had fought the war, had the battle scars and turned their lives around. I’ll admit it… I was sitting there thinking what is Miss “Cradle Catholic” doing in a Baptist Church for a support group – where’s the catch ??? What do these women want from me? But week after week went by and there was no “catch”. The weekly topics focused on REAL issues and everyone in there knew how I was feeling. These women used terms like “being led” to the group, “praying” for help from God, “God Moments” … I began to think they might be on to something. I began changing or started “listening” and “applying” the ideas I had learned. I knew I had to turn my life around, so for the first time I sat down and prayed. I prayed for God to help me use the tools I had learned in the Fresh Start program to do this. God gave me an IMMEDIATE answer, though not the one I was expecting or wanted. My life hit an all time low, but looking back, I realize it was the start of “baby steps” to a much better life. When I was in despair and needed help, I called upon Fresh Start. What did they do ? They saved my life ! These women rallied around me, they supported me, they prayed for me, they guided me. I thought it was Fresh Start that did that for me, but it wasn’t. It was God. He had always been there for me, but due to being too busy, too lazy, knowing-it-all, I never saw that HE was my biggest supporter. He knew when I needed help and he made sure that I was “led” to a group that would be there for me when I needed it the most. How do I thank the program for what it did for me? The only way I can think of is to lead my life the way God intended me to and to give back when I can. Two years after seeing a sign advertising a new singles mom group, I own my own business, changed sexual offender laws in Virginia, became a better role model for my daughter and have peace in my life. -THANK YOU ! Beth
~ENDORSEMENTS~
The Fresh Start program is a mission project that churches all over the world should embrace and implement to encourage single mothers and their children on this journey called life. This is a very detailed, well written and dynamic program that without a doubt will be a lifesaver for many of its participants. I applaud all of the contributors of this fine and much-needed program.
Carla J. Curtis -Author & Public Speaker
*****
A Fresh Start for Single Mothers and Their Children program offers community, hope, life skills, and and encouragement to women who are handling the tremendous burden of raising children on their own. It provides the local church hands-on interaction with the families they are helping. It’s success is proven with many heartwarming personal stories of changed lives. -Brenda Armstrong-Single Parent Ministry Director For Crown Financial Ministries
*****
A Fresh Start For Single Mothers And Their Children, Community Outreach Mission Project is truly a ministry that every church should be invovled with. The Psalms says: Open the eyes of our Heart, Oh Lord and when our eyes are opened to the needs of others, it’s almost impossible not to be moved. However, we need to be trained, guided and helped to properly minister. A Fresh Start for Single Mothers and Their Children does just that. I am honored to have met the author and review the entire Fresh Start curriculum. God Bless you and your ministry.
Lois Trader -Speaker & Author
*****
ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCES FOR ME WAS SPONSORING THE FRESH START PROGRAM FOR SINGLE MOMS AT OUR CHURCH, WORD ALIVE COMMUNITY MINISTRIES. WE HAVE A VERY SMALL GROUP BUT I HAVE LEARNED THAT GOD MOVES NOT IN BIG NUMBERS
BUT IN BIG HEARTS. THE POWER OF GOD WAS WITH US AND I BELIEVE EVERYONE INVOLVED HAD A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE. I LOOK FORWARD TO OUR NEXT EIGHT WEEKS.
LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOU
PASTOR DORA RABB