When I came to Casa, I was pregnant and did not know where to begin after escaping an abusive marriage overseas. I returned to the United States and had nothing to my name. I was overwhelmed and afraid, but I was sure of one thing, and that was I was determined to make a better life for myself and my son.
I am a prideful woman, and asking for help does not come easily to me. Casa welcomed me with compassion, dignity, and understanding. I was finally safe after all the chaos during one of the most vulnerable times of my life. I was grateful to be in an environment that encouraged working hard and furthering my education. I was able to continue my studies at Cal State Long Beach while living at Casa. The stability Casa provided gave me the space to regroup and create a solid plan.
My time at Casa allowed me to prepare not only for motherhood but for the future. I was provided with many resources, including therapy, nutrition classes, spiritual support, birthing classes and an amazing doula. Instead of being consumed by my past, I was able to focus on building my future. I felt supported, respected, and genuinely encouraged to keep moving forward.
After my son was born, I moved to Arizona in January 2024 as I had the opportunity to get my own apartment. In May 2025, I graduated from Cal State Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and received a job offer from PWC, one of the Big Four accounting firms, where I will begin my career this summer. Casa helped change the trajectory of my life. I don’t know where I would be without stability Casa provided at this time.
I am deeply grateful to the dedicated staff, to the board members who volunteer their time and truly support the residents, and to the donors whose generosity makes this work possible. All your support gave me the space to begin healing and prepare for a brighter future for me and my son. I am eternally grateful and I hope to someday give back to this community that gave so much to me.
