Shonda's Journey

When I became a resident at Graciously Broken, I was suffering from addiction, depression, and anxiety. I was jobless and basically homeless. While there, I gave my life to Christ on October 22, 2017!

During the third phase of the program at Graciously Broken, I was required to get a job and I had no idea where to even begin. It was then that I was introduced to the job-readiness program at Heartisans Marketplace.

I began classes and loved going! It was unlike anything I had ever imagined. In addition to finding meaningful work, we were taught how to be healthy in all areas of our life. We would begin each day with a hearty breakfast, devotional, and prayer. With the help of tutors, I was able to complete the WorkKeys, craft a professional resume, and attend several job fairs.

By the end of the program, I was offered a full-time position at Stemco and gladly accepted!

Because of this program, I have been able to buy a car, provide health insurance for both myself and my children, and receive dental assistance that I would have never been able to afford on my own.

I could not have done it without the encouragement, guidance, and love I consistently received (and continue to receive!) from the women at Heartisans. After graduating from the program, my relationship with them has continued to grow. I still visit from time to time and just recently began using their computers to apply to Kilgore College with plans of finishing my degree in Occupational Safety and Health Technology. I know God has a perfect plan for me and am excited to see where He leads me!

I will always be grateful for the job-readiness program at Heartisans! It has changed my life. Most importantly, I am thankful to have developed lasting friendships with women who love the Lord as much as I do!

Thank you, Heartisans, for the love, wisdom, and fellowship you have poured into my life. You are doing great things in our community—one woman at a time—and I am blessed to have been a part of your ministry!