Shelley's Story

“I didn't know what I wanted," Shelley admits. The safety of her temporary home was about to end. She needed help, but didn't know where to turn or who to ask.

She never knew what her Mom did for a living, until one day social workers arrived to remove Shelley from her home. During the hearing to terminate parental rights, she was shocked to hear her Mom confess to making and dealing drugs. Shelley never knew her father, and no one stepped forward to claim her that day.

Where would she go? Who would help?

The temporary shelter was crowded and vicious. Her foster parents weren't much better. Cruel and uncaring, Shelley soon learned how to fend for herself if she wanted to eat. One day her foster mom told her she was leaving. Apparently, Shelley's complaints to her social worker prompted an investigation and they were closing this foster home. Again, she was faced with those haunting questions, "Where will I go?" "Who will help?"

That's when her social worker suggested Mount Dora Children's Home. Scared and intimidated by her new surroundings, Shelley quickly adjusted to her new home. "She's a quick learner with a wonderful attitude," comments her housemom.

Shelley has blossomed at Mount Dora. "The people here stick with you through everything. My housemom is special because she doesn't push me away ... she actually listens to me when I need to talk," Shelley states.

Shelley has a bright future filled with wonderful possibilities because she is growing physically, spiritually and emotionally in a home filled with love.

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