Tera's Journey

On August 3rd, 2018, I became a resident at Son Shine Light House. I was a broken person with no hope. I had just lost custody of my 2-year-old daughter because of my drug addiction. It was there that I surrendered to God and began to start a healing process.

Upon entering the third phase of their program, it was time to start thinking about work and what I wanted to do with my life. I had no idea what I wanted to do and, to be honest, didn’t have much hope…I had given up the dream of attending college many years ago.

I was referred to Heartisans Marketplace in March and began the job readiness program. My world began to change! I was surprised by the amount of love I received...and that was just on my first day! The volunteers poured into us and I experienced love in a way I had never seen before.

During my second week at Heartisans, they helped me regain custody of daughter and were extremely supportive throughout the entire process.

Aside from equipping me to be work-ready, because of Heartisans, I have enrolled in college, chosen a career path, become a licensed driver again, gotten my teeth fixed and so many more small (but major!) things were taken care of that I've needed to do for years but haven't been able to.

Every time there was a need or a worry, Heartisans was right there by my side—praying for me, helping me, and seeing me through each situation.

Son Shine Light House and Heartisans have changed my life forever. Not only have I gained the tools I need to fight my addiction and succeed in life, but Heartisans has helped me pursue the dreams I once had but gave up on.

I'll soon be able to provide for my daughter and will never have to go back to the mess I was once in.