Deborah - client of Nashua Pastoral Care Center's Transitional Housing Program

Deborah moved to NH from MA to escape a husband who had become physically abusive. For her safety and that of her three children, she had to leave. She had lived in a few different shelters until one of them referred her to the Nashua Pastoral Care Center’s Transitional Housing Program.

She came to Nashua with no family support, no career, no car, and three children ages 5, 4, and 3. Deborah soon discovered that she now had a safe place to live at the Care Center’s Norwell Home. She attended the Adult Learning Center for her GED and utilized their childcare program. She and her children received counseling at the Community Council for the emotional issues stemming from the prior abuse.

Living at the Care Center was very different from anything she had ever known. They had strict rules, and she learned many things; responsibility, how to focus on goals, set direction, and be consistent with her children.

Her first goal was to get a driver’s license and a car so I could become more independent. Her case manager took her for driving lessons and The Nashua Soup Kitchen helped her acquire a car.

She recently passed her GED test, and completed her Licensed Nursing Assistant training through the Red Cross. Presently, she is attending New Hampshire’s Work for Success program, where she is preparing to enter the job market.

Two of her children are attending the Boys & Girls Club after school program. Deborah completed the Care Center’s transitional housing program and now she and her young family live in an apartment. Her next goal will be to get a job and work experience. Eventually, she would like to attend college in order to become a Registered Nurse.

Deborah is very grateful for the assistance that her family has received since moving to Nashua. She has learned to be open to receiving help, and that you have to help yourself before someone else can help you.