Their stories are all different. Some were born with drugs in their household while others lived in a world of addiction. All these women have experienced challenges that could have easily stopped them from getting the necessary help.
“I was homeless living in the railroad tracks for many years,” said Turlock resident Lisa Rodgers. “I was suffering from diabetes and addicted to drugs and alcohol. I was real sick. I felt I was going to die.”
Rodgers, along with many other women who experienced drug and alcohol abuse, found haven at Faith Living Recovery Home, a sober living facility that focuses on spiritual development.
“I’ve been here for 42 days and I’m happy to say that I’m one step closer to becoming sober,” said Rodgers. “Being able to come here saved my life.”
Residents at Faith Living Home are required to attend three to five 12-Step meetings per week, church services and recovery groups.
“Women are offered the opportunity to gain insight into their problems while acquiring self-respect and developing moral and spiritual principles,” said Faith Living Director Karen Eubanks. “They are encouraged to develop multiple levels of support through counselors, spiritual groups, community agencies, and job skill opportunities. Our primary purpose is to share love and to instill God's love. We seek to help and teach life skills that will enable them to live meaningful and productive lives for themselves and their families.”
There are currently seven women and one infant living at FLRH. Eubanks said that it has become difficult to supply her clients with the basic amenities.
“We are in dire need of financial help,” said Eubanks. “We are also in need of a computer to help these women in search for jobs. Any donation at the FLRH goes to helping these women live a productive and sober life for them and their families.”
FLRH is hosting its second annual drive-through spaghetti fundraiser from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at 432 South Palm St., in Turlock. The spaghetti fundraiser will include a plate of salad, spaghetti and garlic bread.
“It’s been great so far,” said Eubanks. “We’ve sold about 150 tickets and hope to sell more throughout the week. The proceeds of our fundraiser will be used in part to send our residents to the Women of Faith Seminar in Sacramento this November. It’s a Christian event for today’s woman, where chart-topping music artists and world-class authors and Bible teachers create an unforgettable, day-and-a-half experience for women from all walks of life.”
To purchase tickets or to make a donation contact Karen Eubanks at 622-6987.
