Padmasri M., a former parent of the Atlanta Children’s Shelter was the 2010 Recipient of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation Sue Wieland Embracing Possibilities Award. Here is her story in her own words:

I was born and raised in a very traditional family in India. In my caste women were not allowed to go outside by themselves. I was so dependent on my family that I couldn’t do anything without them. I had a low self esteem, and I was too shy to talk to anyone. I was able to go to school in India, and I eventually earned my Master’s degree in Business Administration. My family arranged my marriage to my ex-husband, and I soon gave birth to my son, Mohanish. My ex-husband decided to move us to the United States on a dependent Visa in 2005.

When we arrived in the United States, my ex-husband became very abusive. He abused me physically, emotionally, and financially. He disconnected me from all communications from my family so I was completely dependent on him. He did not provide us with enough food, and he denied us proper clothing for the winter. My son never had his father’s love. Eventually, my ex-husband was arrested for domestic violence. Since I had no support, I became homeless. I began staying in a shelter with Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV). PADV referred me to the Atlanta Children’s shelter.

The Atlanta Children’s Shelter (ACS) provided me with the supportive foundation I needed to face all my challenges. ACS gave me assistance with free childcare, employment assistance, transitional housing, and aftercare. They even connected me to a church where I could gain spiritual and social support. On top of all that, the staff gave me and my family love and affection which made us feel like we were at a home. It was neat, clean, and safe, like a home should feel. My son loved the childcare. At the beginning he used to cry at home on the weekends because he wanted to be at ACS. Even now he loves ACS. He wants to volunteer when he grows up.

With childcare in place, I could focus on employment. Ms. Billingslea, the Employment Counselor, helped me with counseling and career development. This assistance prepared me to find my first real job after I received my work permit. I gained employment at the Credit Union of Atlanta as a Member Services Representative in 2007. With financial assistance from ACS, I transitioned into my own apartment, and for the first time in my life, I started being independent. I really began to have peace of mind. No need to worry about abuse, I could buy whatever food or clothing my son and I needed.

My Aftercare Case Manager, Mellony, assisted me like a friend. She taught me how to handle personal issues in my life and how to overcome obstacles. Mellony made me feel strong and confident. She always mentored me not to think about the past, but keep moving with confidence and faith. I decided that instead of paying rent every month on my apartment, I wanted to have my own home. Mellony supported me, and within a year, I owned my own home. Next, I started thinking about owning a business. I received my business license in August 2010, and now I am the business owner of “Padmasri Hair and Beauty Supplies.” I sell Indian virgin hair, bangles, and beauty supplies.

My next goal is to learn how to drive a car and to open a small restaurant where I can provide healthy, fresh food. I want to give women in shelters transitional employment. I have confidence that the day will come in my life where can give back everything I received. I will be proud of myself when l can help at least one family.

I grew up in a culture where women are dedicated to cooking, cleaning, having kids, and taking care of the house. Now I really know the meaning of "LIFE.” Today I’m independent, self sufficient, confident, and able to make my own decisions in reaching my goals. Behind all these achievements I have support from ACS. I’m very grateful that I have a relationship with ACS. My son is my life, and he is great motivation for me. From the day he was born until today, he has been sharing my stress, and the good and bad days in my life. I go above and beyond for him to give him a good life. By giving so much support, love, and affection to me and my son, ACS made my life easier so I could accomplish my goals. Life is very peaceful.

A Testimonial by Nakia B., former Atlanta Children’s Shelter parent:

I would like to thank everyone at ACS for their love and support. It has meant the world to me. I know I would not be in my present situation without ACS. They gave me the support I needed to become self-sufficient. Everyone at ACS was beneficial to my success but especially Ms. Mellony, Ms. Alison, and Mrs. Billingslea. When I first started at ACS, I was thinking it would just be a daycare for me to take my son. I never imagined that it would become so essential to my well-being. I didn’t have any support when I came to ACS. Everyone there was so nice and encouraging. Mellony & Alison were supportive and helpful in every way. They never let me give up even when I wanted to. Mrs. Billingslea became like a mother figure to me. We talked about real serious things. We talked on a real personal level.

I know that I am loved and that there are people who want to see me succeed and that makes me feel good. I thank God for ACS and the people who work there. I know I wouldn’t be where I am without them. I hope they know that their love and support has and will always mean so much to me. I love you all so much and I am so grateful that God placed you in my life.

Love Always,

Nakia B.