Stories from the Women
Created exists to serve the most exploited women of our city. The following are a few testimonies of some of the beautiful women who have been through our program. We believe that every life matters and her voice deserves to be heard.
“I just love my life today. See, my thoughts tell me that, while my disease tells me that ‘no one likes me’ and that I’m ‘too good to be around here’, but I know in my heart that I am loved. I don’t want to have to wake up any more wondering where I’m going to get my next high or the next guy to sleep with and manipulate to get what I want. I don’t have to live like that anymore. Now that I’m clean it feels like freedom. I’m not ashamed of who I was out there in my addiction, ‘cause that was not Chantel. Chantel is a loving, caring person that does for others and shows respect.”
“For a long time I thought my life didn’t mean much. I would use drugs, go to jail, then get out and do the same thing all over again. I did that for many years. It was a revolving door for me. I would go to jail long enough to get some rest and food in my stomach then back to a life of spiritual brokenness and uncertainty. ‘God, is this the life I’m supposed to live? I’m tired; I don’t want this life anymore.’ Those were the words that changed my life. After that night, I got arrested and stayed in jail for a couple of months. Through all the difficulties, God held my hand and told me it was going to be ok.
I graduated from a 6-month residential treatment program in June 2009, then moved into the Created house and lived there for 11 months, and that experience was great. I learned how to follow Jesus and how to serve others. I felt comfortable because I related to others that have been down the same road I was on. I was still on probation at the time and I was constantly wondering if I would ever get off. An amazing thing happened in May of 2010, my judge finally told me that I was doing a great job and that she was proud of me and finally freed me from probation. I was very happy because I never thought that I could do it. I was supposed to be on probation for three years but finished in 18 months. God is so good, I know that if I could overcome the obstacles in life so can many other women. ”
“I’ve been in and out of jail and prison for about 30 years. I came from a Christian family. I started doing drugs at the age of 13. Each time that I went to prison I made myself a promise that things would be different when I was released, they only spiraled more out of control. I have been in prison 7 times for crack cocaine. This drug is not a respecter of person, it can affect anyone. Several years ago, Joann (Founder of Created) was a student, she was living at the house that I live in now. In my addiction, many times I would be so hungry, dirty, and tired. Joann and the rest of the ladies would invite me in to eat and rest. Many times, I couldn’t believe how kind they were to me and they would open their arms and doors to a perfect stranger. By being in the Created house, it has given me the opportunity to get my live on track and to know God. Many times when God places you, its right where you need to be.”