Teyuana

After years of living in an abusive relationship, Teyuana found herself sleeping in a car with her two young sons while pregnant. Her mind racing, exhausted from searching for a safe place to park the car every night, she cried out to God. Through the recommendation of a stranger, He led her to Shepherd’s Door, where she joined the New Life Program.

Teyuana worked hard to build a better life for her family. But when she became trapped in an abusive relationship, it left her feeling hopeless and isolated. “I was in a very toxic situation... and eventually I was sleeping in my car with my boys. I felt like a terrible mom.”

She desperately wanted to protect her children and knew returning to the abusive situation wasn’t an option. “Every day was a new battle,” she recalls. “I broke down to God, I prayed, ‘Father, help me. I need to get out of this.’”

When she realized she was pregnant with her daughter, Teyuana became determined to break free from the abusive cycle. “I sat in the car thinking, ‘Do I want my baby to see my life and think that this is okay? Absolutely not.’ I felt disconnected from them, and I knew I was putting them in unsafe situations.”

On the suggestion of a stranger, Teyuana drove to Shepherd’s Door. “From the minute they opened the door, I felt so warm and welcomed.” After so many days spent fighting to survive, Teyuana found safety instead of fear. “My first morning waking up here...my kids were asleep in a bed. I felt so much peace.”

As she participated in counseling, Bible studies, and parenting support, God began restoring every part of Teyuana’s life. She’s deepened bonds with her sons and daughter and found healing through ourChildren’s Center’s trauma-informed care programs and play therapy. “We’re learning everything all over again in a healthy way through God.”

Today, Teyuana has a fresh perspective on life: “I feel strong.I feel that I’m being guided. I’ve grown closer to God and I feel free. I’m happy again, after a long time." 

“Before coming to Portland Rescue Mission, I was broken, hurt, and alone. Now, I’ve been restored. I’ve gained so many relationships in the community here. My life has been blessed.”

This Christmas, Teyuana is celebrating the gift of a new beginning and restored relationships. She looks forward to building a safe and joyful life for herself and her children.