When I found out that I was pregnant in March 2019, I realized I could not continue living in my sister’s house in Santa Ana, California. I was making very little money at the time, just broke up with a long-term relationship and going through a depression.
“ The moment, I stepped into the house, I loved everything about it.”
I moved out and stayed with a friend; desperately needed a place to stay a little closer to my work, and my pregnancy was complicating my situation. Luckily, a coworker told me about calling 211 and I did. I searched places and I decided on Casa de Los Angelitos because the moment I stepped into the house, I loved everything about it. I knew this is where I can stay safely and reorganize my life.
I moved in April of 2019. I actually welcomed the classes that were offered especially the Domestic Violence classes. Although I never experienced abuse at the hands of a boyfriend, I was a victim of a very
physically abusive uncle when I was a young girl living with my grandparents in Mexico. I learned a lot about abuse not just from partners but from family. I also took advantage of the opportunity for one-on-one counseling sessions that Casa de los Angelitos offered through a local Catholic church in Lomita, CA.
My son, Santiago was born on October 4, 2019. He is a healthy, beautiful, happy boy. I am so grateful to Casa de Los Angelitos and the opportunity to stay there when I was at my weakest point and I will always treasure the lessons and the friendships that I made while living in such a beautiful environment.
Miriam Sanchez
Former Resident Feature
