No high school student should be thrown out of her home in senior year. “Debbi” was kicked out of her home by her father. She’d been receiving demeaning comments and emotional abuse from her father for a long time. She felt low about herself, and had self esteem issues and emotional issues as a result. Now she had nowhere to go. Facing the reality of sleeping on the streets, Debbi fortunately was able to connect with Second Story for Teens in Crisis. With us she found a safe place to stay, warm meals, and support.Debbi began having weekly sessions with a senior therapist to work through the issues she had as a result of her father’s emotional abuse. She moved into the Second Story for Homeless Youth program, and got long-term housing and support. The vision of Second Story is of a community in which all young people are safe, live in a nurturing environment, and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
She has been accomplishing amazing things! While being a full-time high school student, Debbi has also had a full-time job. She has been able to save over $7,000 while living in the group home. She purchased her own car, and was able to officially pay it off. She financed braces for two years to improve her teeth. With the help of staff, she also applied for her US Citizenship.
Now, Debbi is about to get her high school diploma. She’s been expressing gratitude for Second Story, and she says she isn’t sure where her life would be without the help she received from caring staff and volunteers. Given the right opportunities, Debbi was able to shine, and is now writing her second story!