Rebecca has called Tender Mercies home for the past four and a half years. Before arriving, she spent years battling substance use, a struggle that eventually led to her becoming homeless. But within the walls of Tender Mercies, she found something she hadn’t felt in a long time — stability, safety, and hope.
Her journey hasn’t been easy. Her family saw her addiction firsthand and took the initiative to get her into shelter, both for her sake as well as the safety of Rebecca’s grandchildren for whom she provided childcare. While the shelter she stayed in provided immediate help, it was a far cry from the stability she needed. Upon arriving at Tender Mercies, Rebecca was surrounded by supportive services that laid a foundation from which she could recover from addiction. As life goes, she would need that foundation of support in very important ways this past winter.
Just a few months ago, Rebecca faced the unimaginable death of her son. The grief was overwhelming, and in the past it might have pushed her into old habits. But this time was different. This time, she had a support system. Instead of turning to substances, she leaned on the community she built at Tender Mercies. Resident Support Workers and staff checked in on her daily, fellow residents shared in her sorrow, and through it all, she stayed strong.
Tender Mercies has given Rebecca more than just a roof over her head. It has given her time — time to heal, time to reflect, and most importantly, time to rebuild relationships. Since coming here , she has repaired the trust broken when she struggled with addiction. Likewise, Rebecca’s learning to trust herself again, and with every passing day she feels more confident in the life she is creating.
“I never thought I’d be where I am today,” she says. “But I’m so grateful. If it wasn’t for Tender Mercies, I don’t know here I’d be.”
Her journey is far from over, but Rebecca knows she’s not alone. Tender Mercies has been her safe haven, her stepping stone toward a future filled with hope. And while the past will always be a part of her, it no longer defines her. She is moving forward—one strong, steady step at a time.
