In 2007, Norma, struggling to maintain her relationship and provide a good home for her three young boys, became exhausted. She felt let down by her absentee husband and worse, felt terrible for the children they shared together. They didn’t deserve a life like this. After learning about PHD through Northwest Community Hospital, Norma became a client; receiving Baby & Maternity Closet support as well as valuable professional counseling. With Norma’s brother and mom living in another state she relied on PHD to be her support system.
As her marriage disintegrated, PHD’s professional counseling was integral in Norma’s ability to regain her self-esteem and self-confidence. Through regular sessions with her counselor, Norma began to realize she could be a strong, single parent for her boys, one of who struggled with special needs. Norma participated in PHD’s seven-week, intensive Common Sense Parenting program where she developed effective parenting techniques that continue to provide a healthy balance of nurturing and discipline. Through case management Norma also learned about community resources to help her and her children, including her oldest son who seemed to be struggling most with the divorce. PHD helped connect her son to Bridge Youth and Family Services where he is now awaiting the care he needs to heal.
Over the last year and half Norma has made significant steps in discovering her potential to be a great mom.
The time PHD provides to women (children must be three years and younger) affords them the chance to heal and grow at a pace right for them. Norma’s youngest son will be three next month which means she can no longer participate in PHD’s services. But with the help of her counselor and utilizing her resources, Norma feels empowered to continue her journey. She is working full time, taking classes to obtain her GED and is doing well in her ESL classes.
Norma’s story is just one of hundreds that speak to the needs of women in our community who struggle with the finding a balance of being a good parent to managing a challenging relationship with a husband or significant other. As long as PHD’s doors remain open there will be a safe place for women and families to heal. With 88 cents of every dollar going to important programs and services, your generosity simply translates into comfort and joy for the clients who walk through our doors each day.
Would you consider making a gift to PHD this holiday season? You can make it an extra special gift by donating in honor of memory of a loved one. Thank you for your kindness and continued support of PHD and the families we serve!
