I enjoy reading books, exercise, walking and talking with my friends at Sarah’s. I plan to get asylum and go back to school to get my degree so I can work and live. I plan to see my Mom and Dad again if possible. I like being in community with others from different areas. Thank you Sarah’s for being my home.

Mandesa learned she would never see her mother alive again after the terrorists raided her small home town not far from the East African coast. For Mandesa, this was only the latest in a series of painful events that shaped a life of constant movement and fear. Mandesa was first raped at the age of 13 by a government soldier. Her only brother, just a child, was brutally beaten and abducted into a child army. She never slept through the night without waking in a panic. With determination and cunning, Mandesa escaped, and like many torture survivor, carried deep physical and psychological wounds. She needed to find a way to survive even though she had no resources or family support. As an asylum seeker in the United States, Mandesa was barred from public housing or financial emergency services. Not eligible to work, she could not afford food or basic health care. A fear of being returned to her oppressors and a post-traumatic fear of institutional detention made it nearly impossible for her to seek help. Then she found Sarah’s and has built a new life for herself. Living at Sarah’s and participating in Sarah’s community-based service model provided Mandesa with the resources she needed to become self-sufficient and self-empowered.

Staying in Sarah’s home is a wonderful time. We respect and help each other. Occasionally, we receive gifts, especially during the holidays. Each gift is such a surprise! I love Sarah’s house and I appreciate everyone at Sarah’s. Thank you for being here. God bless you all!

A home is the most basic need in human life. A home and food which I was provided at Sarah’s. This gave me healing in my broken heart. I came to Sarah’s with no direction and was just guessing my future. Sarah’s helped me shape my life. I had a vision and fulfilled my goals. Though I had some challenges in my journey of life, I had a shoulder to cry on at Sarah’s. My favorite part of Sarah’s was our house meetings.  

Sarah’s is a good place and helped me a lot. I will never forget Sarah’s house. My life changed. I did not speak or write English when I came to Sarah’s, and they helped me to go to school. I had food, clothes, a bus card–everything I needed to accomplish my goals. I was unhappy when I came to Sarah’s house, but Sarah’s house gave me happiness. In school I studied computers and then I studied nursing assistant. I have job, and my life has changed. The safety and quiet at Sarah’s house helped me so much. I love you. Thank you. 

It has been a blessing for me to stay at Sarah’s home, especially during the time I was desperate; Sarah’s gave me support and helped me with everything I needed. I want to thank Cheryl (Sarah’s Director) for helping me with different aspects of my life. Because of your support I was able to have my own apartment and lead a very happy life. Thank you!