Haley’s Story of Hope
We first heard the story of “Haley” when she was 15 years old. She is a cousin to one of our girls at Courage House, who begged us to also give her cousin a chance to change her life, like she has gotten at Courage House.
Our team went through all the protocols and investigated the situation of Haley. Her mother was single and in extreme poverty, barely able to make ends meet. Haley was on the streets to survive.
Her mother came with Haley to meet our team of social workers. It was then that Haley’s mother decided to disclose the devastating news that she has AIDS. Haley took the news very hard, as any young daughter would. Haley’s mom said to her, “Now you have a chance for your life — to change it so you don’t turn out like me… I won’t live long, but you can have hope for your future now.”
Haley sobbed and our team was overcome and tears streamed down their faces too.
She came to Courage House heavy hearted, but with a glimmer of hope. Her cousin greeted her and they both cried in each other’s arms.
Soon, Haley settled in and was shining. She loves to dance, to rap and has such a fun sense of humor that often girls were laughing when she was with them.
Recently, it was on Haley’s heart to help her young sister. She met with her pastor (from the church our girls go to) as he runs a private Christian school. Even though the school is expensive, Haley wanted her sister to also be in a good environment. She advocated for her sister, and her pastor agreed to lower the cost considerably so her sister could go. Haley was thrilled and filled with joy.
Initially Haley wanted to be in law enforcement, but as she became one of the top students in her class, her dreams changed. Now 2 years later, she just graduated from Form 4 (high school) and ended up getting the highest marks on her national exams of any of our girls. She is now at Courage House Too (our transition house) and is soaking in all of the new life skills: computers, English, sewing and leadership. She wants to be a journalist and it looks like she will be able to go to college in the summer.
Her mother is still alive. We’re so grateful for Haley’s life — that she was rescued from a destitute situation. Haley is a world changer and has already changed her sister’s life. We know that God has a big plan and a purpose for her!
These days the world can feel extremely heavy. But, we know that even in the darkest situations, we can find light and hope. All of us here at Courage are always so encouraged by the transformations of each of the girls at Courage House. Against all odds, they heal and transform — impacting the lives of their families and the community.
We hope that this story imparted you with hope this week. If you feel led to join us in our mission and support girls like Haley, click the green button below. It is so fulfilling to be a part of this journey of rescuing and restoring these courageous young women.
Thank you for your prayers and support! The girls and staff frequently pray for you, all of our supporters. We couldn’t do this work without you.
Sincerely,
Jenny Williamson
Founder and CEO, Courage Worldwide