A Place of Healing – A Voice of Hope.

Jill & Scarlett’s Story of Hope & Healing

I met my husband and almost immediately, he felt like family. It seemed like we were very compatible and everything was great. Unfortunately, just weeks after we were married, he lost his job and things started to change. He became angry and distant. He began treating me like I was a nuisance instead of a blessing, and soon, he began abusing me. I had little money and no place to go — but I knew I had to leave. For a year, I slept on the couch at homes of different family members and friends. I had many health issues resulting from the abuse I endured. Eventually, I found a shelter where I could receive medical care. I also received a service companion to help manage my recovery: a dog named Scarlett. I am so thankful for Scarlett! As my time at the shelter was coming to an end, I started to worry about finding a place that would be able to care for both of us.
“I had little money and no place to go — but I knew I had to leave.”
“My heart ached when I thought about her living in an animal shelter without me, and possibly having to be re-homed.”
I was told there weren’t many places Scarlett and I could live together, and I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move without her. She was my family now! My heart ached when I thought about her living in an animal shelter without me, and possibly having to be re-homed. Then, my Case Manager told me about the pet-friendly living spaces at Lydia’s House. When I got to Lydia’s House, I was given a fully furnished, pet-friendly apartment where I could stay with Scarlett. Lydia’s House even had a private dog park! I no longer had to worry about where I was walking her and if we were safe. We were no longer homeless, and I began to feel human again. Lydia’s House has provided encouragement, support, life skills and time to heal with Scarlett. Now, thanks to Lydia’s House, I live a life free of violence with my loving companion by my side.
Read more of our Stories of Hope. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the residents of Lydia’s House, please click here.
“Now, thanks to Lydia’s House, I live a life free of violence with my loving companion by my side.”

If you are interested in donating or would like more information about Lydia’s House,

please contact our development coordinator at (314) 771-4411 or development@lydiashouse.org.