Shelbey’s Story

Shelbey didn't have a home to call her own, but she had two precious children, and she was determined not to spend a single night on the streets. Life was tough, but she did her best to provide for her little family. Thanks to the unwavering support she discovered at New Directions, Shelbey has embarked on an extraordinary journey of personal growth, making significant strides, and setting her sights on even greater accomplishments ahead. This is Shelbey’s story:

Shelbey recalls the day they showed up to New Directions, her heart heavy with worry. She had no possessions for herself or her children, they showed up with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

The very next day happened to be her son's birthday, and Shelbey had nothing to celebrate the occasion, no cake, nor presents. But the shelter surprised her with toys and helped decorate for a birthday celebration. It felt like fate had aligned to give her son a memorable birthday.

For Shelbey, coming to the shelter wasn't easy, not knowing anyone or what to expect. After exhausting her stays with family members who were less than kind, she felt completely alone. As a single mom she was overcome with worry about their predicament, especially since her son is a child with health issues, suffering from epilepsy. But, in time Shelbey found solace in the sense of community there. She realized she wasn't alone; there were other parents trying their best to navigate tough situations.

Room number five at New Directions Family Shelter became their sanctuary. For a year and a half, Shelbey and her children carved out a life filled with love and possibility. Despite the challenges that loomed large, Shelbey found solace in the unwavering support of Miss Danielle, New Directions Family Services Director. It was through her guidance that Shelbey discovered a world of opportunities she never knew existed. Shelbey went back to school to complete her GED, her children were made eligible for government services providing medical care and food, and she was able to enroll them in public school.

Before New Directions, Shelbey had a tumultuous past, filled with struggles and heartbreak. She escaped an abusive marriage, faced insurmountable challenges, and encountered tough decisions she had to make for the sake of her children's well-being.

After leaving her husband and finding refuge with her former foster parents of 6 years, Shelbey became their caregiver, especially for her foster father, who was bed-bound. Taking care of him became her purpose, and it’s what inspired her to pursue a career as a CNA.

At the shelter, when another family's toddler suddenly succumbed to a terrifying seizure and stopped breathing Shelbey's training in CPR became a valuable tool. With unwavering composure, Shelbey leaped into action, skillfully resuscitating the child before the paramedics could arrive.

In the aftermath of the harrowing ordeal, Shelbey's resolve was unshakeable. The experience solidified her commitment to becoming a CNA. As she looked toward the future, she knew that her journey was just beginning—a testament to the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit to overcome even the greatest of obstacles.

Currently, Shelbey and her family reside in apartment housing as part of her journey to independence. Through it all, Shelbey's resilience shone brightly, illuminating the path for her and her children.

According to Shelbey, “I came to New Directions with nothing, but left with everything.”