Christiana Finds Bright Future at YES' Maternity Group Home
Like many young mothers and mothers-to-be who come to YES, Christiana arrived at the YES Maternity Group home 17 months ago seeking refuge.
She had been staying in a hotel with her infant daughter, Za’Riyah, after escaping an abusive relationship with her daughter’s father.
Through the Women’s Center for Advancement (WCA), she was referred to YES, and that decision positively changed her life – and continues to change her life to this day.
“(Initially), I was scared to come to YES because I didn’t know anything about it,” Christiana said. “But I had to make sure that my daughter had a safe place to live – that we were safe and trusted in God’s plans.”
Now 21 and with second daughter, Zendayah, 5 months, added to the family. Christiana has found great success through YES’ MGH program.
She works at Wal-Mart as a full-time associate, recently moved into her own apartment and is looking forward to a bright future for her and her daughters.
During her time in the MGH program, she learned about budgeting and other life skills in addition to the best ways to care for her daughters.
But her experience with abuse stretches back to her childhood.
“I came from a family where I wasn’t loved and moved from house to house since I was 16,” said Christiana, who plans to earn her degree and start a career as a counselor while raising her daughters to be “kind, loving women.”
“I was abused from my mother and molested by my father and a cousin. (I was) abused by my girls’ father. But I have a purpose, and I thank God I have my daughters. YES built me to be independent and strong. I’m so thankful for them. I have a story to tell, and I hope I have the chance one day to share it with young women and children.”
And even though she has graduated from the MGH program and is living independently, Christiana said she knows YES will always be a resource for her.
Suffice it to say, she’s very grateful for everything she learned and experienced during her time there.
“It was a blessing to be part of the YES program,” she said. “I was able to get all the resources I needed, save money, have a stable job and transportation and a safe roof over our heads. I would say I matured a lot, and I am more fearless.”
For anyone needing YES’ services, Christiana has a simple yet compelling message.
“Don’t be afraid to get the help and know you are not alone,” she said. “If you don’t feel safe, YES will always be there and make sure you are safe.
“The program is a guidance and help toward your future and your children. YES is there to help. It helps you build a support system if you don’t have one and helps gather life skills.”
