August 2017

Second Chance

I have 4 beautiful children, 3 currently live with their dad in another state, and my youngest is in my custody. Both of my children’s fathers were abusive, so that is the chaotic lifestyle I knew. The month before I left my second abuser, I cried and prayed for God to open a door for me and my daughter to leave safely. God opened the door so I could leave, and made it so the place I escaped to was too far away for me to return to my abuser.

During this time I began going to a local church and I was saved. From that point on I grabbed on to God. I started praying more, reading my Bible daily, and ministering to the other women in the emergency shelter. Two weeks later I called Sheepfold and on August 15, 2016, I moved in to start a new chapter in my life – a chapter I never thought was possible.

I had a court hearing for a restraining order in early September. Of course, I was nervous right before I went before the judge, so as I waited, I prayed. That day the judge granted me a 5-year restraining order and sole legal and physical custody of my little girl. By the grace of God I was given a second chance to be a mom again! Praise God! At the end of that same week, I was baptized at church and I felt refreshed and new.

In October, I took my daughter to have an eye exam and found out that she not only needed glasses, but she needed special (very expensive) glasses. I went in ready to pay for the glasses and they told me to wait because they might be able to get a grant to help pay for the glasses. So, I prayed on it and asked the ladies at the shelter to pray on it too. I called them back and found out they had gotten a grant that covered all the cost!

I am so grateful for the Sheepfold! All of the House Managers are beautiful, graceful women of God and each has guided me on how to discipline and love my little girl. My strong-willed, defiant little girl has changed so much since we came here. Her behavior is less defiant and she loves to pray every night before bed. God has not only worked in my life, but He is also working in a 2 ½ year old’s life!

Even with all the trials I have endured since being at the Sheepfold, I am able to remain joyous and at peace. I have faith that God has a great purpose for me. My life is no longer chaotic! I am forever grateful to have such a loving Father. Thank you God for the second chance at life and a second chance to learn to be a great and loving mom.

- Shannon, Sheepfold Resident

Girl Scouts Serving Sheepfold Kids

Girl Scout Troop 14934 has gone above and beyond to serve our Sheepfold families.

They raised enough money from their cookie sales to have custom bookshelves built for two of our shelters. These beautiful handmade bookcases were filled with games, art supplies and books for our families to enjoy.

The girls loved spending time with our families so much that they asked to return and host a BBQ for our moms and kids. They plan on serving our families on a regular basis. It is such a joy to see young ladies eager to serve their community.

Senior Project

Cindy Gorriz is a student from El Modena High School. For her senior project she was asked to do an outreach project for an organization that she was interested in. She decided on the Sheepfold. Not only did she volunteer at the Sheepfold Boutique, but she also put up flyers around her school requesting donations for Mother’s Day baskets for the Sheepfold. The baskets were such a blessing for our moms.

Here is a note from Cindy...

“Since I started volunteering at Sheepfold, I realized that being a Social Worker is something I would really love to do and I feel that it is my calling. Sheepfold helps women who are homeless or have been victims of domestic violence and also has an amazing boutique. Volunteering here has made me realize that these women are not alone.

It’s an amazing feeling to lend a helping hand and support such an awesome cause. Even after I graduate from High School I still plan on volunteering at the Sheepfold Boutique. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity!”

- Cindy

Thank You!!!

Thank you to our wonderful newsletter volunteers who faithfully serve each month to prepare the newsletter for delivery.

They are making a difference in the lives of the women and children we serve!