Last month at Brenda's House, a single mother and her son had arrived on our doorstep.  They were recent immigrants from Venezuela.  We quickly learned that life in Venezuela was one of hardship and a lot of very hard work, but filled with family, friends and joy. 

This mother and her new partner from Venezuela, along with her son decided that moving to Canada would offer a better life for everyone.  Unfortunately, upon arrival she found herself to be in an increasing controlling and abusive relationship.  She decided to leave the situation with her son, but found herself with nowhere to go, no family and no support.  She was panicked, but knew there was no other alternative.  She received the break she needed and was referred to Brenda's House who provided the safe environment that both her and her son needed desperately.  

She was determined to make a better life for her and her son, so with an exceptional worth ethic and her entrepreneurial skills she started her own cleaning and tutoring business. She was also able to find suitable housing that she could sustain with her new income. Neighbourlink was able to provide her furniture, so she could turn her new house into a home.  When her time with us was drawing to a close she told us she had not felt safe or like she had a family in Canada until coming to Brenda's House. On her way out the door to start her new life, she left a long letter to the staff at Brenda's House, thanking us for all us for making them feel safe and part of a family!