Healing in Summer

Summer is not ignorant to the reality of homelessness, existing only to survive and having to battle against her family history. Born into a family composed of addiction, chronic instability, prison and mental health challenges, there was a long stack of cards dealt against her - but God had a plan.

In 2000, I was born and raised in North Philadelphia and grew up in the shelter system with my mother and three sisters at Eliza Shirley- Project Rainbow. I resided there for a few years; then transitioned to “the projects” for about eight years. There were shootings in the hallways, murders, drug trafficking, and fires from other units where we were trapped in the building unable to evacuate. But by the grace of God, the Lord moved us from there to the Olney section of Philly.

Even though her environment changed and she had a sense of God’s love, the family’s struggles continued, which led to a lack of self-worth.

During my teenage years, I attended the A. Philip Randolph Career Technical High school, taking up carpentry. I received all my certifications there, as well as a full scholarship to Albright College! During my time at Albright, I was awarded the Presidential and Lion’s award. But unfortunately, due to my past and where I come from, I did not feel good enough to be there, which led to a mental breakdown. In 2019, I started working at a nursing home and met a resident named Ms. Barbara.  She gave me a study Bible, which helped me to understand the scriptures.  

In 2021, Summer gave birth to her daughter, Genesis.  In 2024, she and her daughter were living out of her car while she was working as an assistant teacher.  However, her car was stolen, which led to she and her daughter house-hopping between friends and family, including staying with her mother. Unfortunately, after one of many disagreements between them over the years resulting in Summer becoming homeless, once again she was told to leave the home. This is where Summer hit her breaking point. 

I sat on a couch and I said to the Lord, “I can’t take this anymore. I'm pregnant, sleeping on someone's couch, I lost my car, I don't have a place to call home. I want to go home, but I don't know where home is.” Tears were pouring down my face. I was ready to throw in the towel. That same day, I received a call from Sister Kelly. She asked me if I wanted to come in for an interview. I forgot I had applied to Life Turning Point last year, not knowing what the place was really about. When I came in for the interview, I felt something beautiful.  It was clean, and there was a sense of peace. Everyone was welcoming; the staff was loving.  When Sister Rita showed me my room, I noticed the names of God on the doors, and that was confirmation for me that this is where I was meant to be.  Once I was accepted, I was so grateful and overwhelmed with excitement that I cried.  Since I've been here, I have gained more discipline and consistency.  It has been a blessing. I am truly grateful for all of the support and help.  I’ve realized the plans the Lord has for me are greater than any goal I had for myself! 

Summer has begun the journey of acceptance, forgiveness and healing with the support of her case manager Ms. Charlene, her parent mentor and counselor. These services and more are provided under one roof for our families at LTP. 

After I graduate from the program, as a teacher, I want to give back to children in, and released from, the Juvenile Detention Center: children who are diagnosed with autism, and struggling in the areas of social and emotional development; and who are suffering with suicidal thoughts and depression like I was. Ultimately, I want to use my carpentry background to build housing for men and women in need. I want more for myself and my family; and I know by the Lord bringing me here, and with the help of the LTP staff, He will guide me on the right path. To God be the Glory!