Seven-month-old Winnie*, pictured above, is now thriving at The Haven. But if her mother had not found The Haven, her story could be very different.
Winnie’s mom, Mia* arrived at The Haven Maternity Home at Clarity from a domestic violence shelter. Mia was previously married to an abusive man who controlled every aspect of her life, from her actions to her phone, and physically assaulted her. One day, after driving him to a store so he could shoplift, Mia made a brave decision. She drove away, called the store to report him, and he was arrested.
While it was good that Mia left her abuser, she was then homeless and living in her car. But soon, the car was repossessed, and Mia went to live in the domestic violence shelter. There, she got a job to start saving money but was soon facing another curve ball: she was pregnant.
Thankfully, Mia found The Haven. Soon after move-in, Mia experienced serious complications with her type 1 diabetes. After two hospitalizations and extensive diabetes education at The Haven, Mia gained a deeper understanding of how serious diabetes was for both her and for baby Winnie.
Last winter, Mia gave birth to her beautiful baby girl and formed a strong bond with her, even breastfeeding, because her diabetes had been managed more effectively!
Mia & Winnie Today ♥︎
Now, Mia is blossoming and has new goals and ambitions for herself and baby Winnie. She’s back in school, working toward her career, saving money, and reconnecting with family. Mia attends church weekly, where Winnie was recently dedicated. Now seven months old, Winnie is thriving at The Haven. She loves bouncing in her jumper with her wide, toothy grin revealing two tiny bottom teeth. Any day now, she’ll be crawling!
Because of your support, Mia and Winnie’s story is filled with hope, healing, and new beginnings. You helped provide a safe place when Mia had nowhere else to turn and gave Winnie a stable home surrounded by love. With your continued support, even more moms and babies will find the same hope and future as Mia and Winnie. Thank you.
*names changed for confidentiality