By Charlene
Charlene: Abuse Victim is Working to Build a Healthier Life for Her Son

My name is Charlene and I am 22 years old. My life has been difficult as long as I can remember.

My sisters and I were continually molested by our father for many years. When we became teenagers we found the courage to leave home. I became homeless. For a long time, I lived in a shelter. My lifestyle was loose and carefree.

Then, I became pregnant. Lost and confused, I did not know for sure who the father was. A friend told me about the Healthy Babies Project. After talking with the staff members there, I decided to join the TPEP (Teen Parent Empowerment Program) and am very glad I did.

The people at HBP gave me support and assisted me in many ways. For example, TPEP includes parenting classes that helped me to be a better parent and raise my child in a different way than I was raised. HBP also provides counseling. This has been especially helpful to me considering the wounds I’ve accumulated over the years.

My father was finally arrested and sentenced for 25 years to life in prison for what he had done to me and my sisters. I am glad there are consequences for his wrongdoings, but at the same time, I am sad because he is still my father. Although he apologized before the judge what he did, my scars remain.

Today, my son and I live in my grandmother’s house and rely on her support financially. I am looking for a job. One day I would like to go to college. I want to give my son a better life.

Wish List

$5                    Baby formula
$25                  Clothes for baby
$40                  Food for mother and baby for a week
$100                Professional clothes for classes, interviews, and work
$300                3 days respite housing

Ways you can make a difference

Support Charlene. Click here.
Browse stories of HBP clients and their new beginnings. Click here.