Moving to Armagh
I will never forget the day I moved into Armagh, it was about 3 ½ months after I ran away from my abusive ex-husband. I remember the first day I came for the interview, I met three kind and happy women. They were the staff at Armagh. I felt the love and kindness of their hearts, one of them was so special (Jessica Adams, Transitional Housing Support Worker) she is the most kind and loving person I’ve ever met and always cares about the people who live at Armagh. When we were in the interview, these ladies showed their care, love, kindness, and immediately made me feel so comfortable. By the grace of God, after the interview, staff told me, “welcome to Armagh”. This shocked me because I was not expecting for an answer right away, but they did. The staff showed me my unit, and around the house. I was in shock and crying because I didn’t know what to say, God led me to Armagh, the place where I can get help and learn to be an independent woman. I was in tears for hours asking myself and the LORD, “is this really true, or I am dreaming”? When I ran away, I had no clue where I was going, how I was going to live, or how I will get financial support. I just put my trust into the LORD and knew he will take care of everything. When I moved into Armagh, I was broke, in tears, in fear, and felt alone. I felt like I didn’t know anything about anything. My life before, with my ex-husband, he made all life decisions, now it's just me and the LORD. When I moved in, the arms of the staff at Armagh were wide open and welcoming. The staff taught me and helped me cope with what I was going through. Staff was and are 100% by my side and supportive for each step I was facing. Staff helped me with legal matters, gaining independence, life skills, supportive counselling, financial supports and they were there for every obstacle I faced.
Many nights Ms. Lynn Ward (Executive Director) worked late nights. Staff should be leaving Armagh at 5pm to go home but some nights they are still here. When we need them they show up no matter what time or day it is. It feels like staff are actually living here but physically not, it is just that their hearts are always here. I was witness that they put their personal life on hold to support us. After a year and half with Armagh and support from the community, I learned to be an independent woman. I cannot thank Armagh staff and the community enough. They have been a big impact on my life and if I didn’t come to Armagh I don’t know how I would have made it. Staff has treated me like I am a member of their family. Any time I felt lonely I would go to their office and feel comforted. They were always there for me. Thank you so much for all the encouragement and support you have given to me. Thank you for all the smart advice THANK YOU VERY MUCH EVERY ONE FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT (Ms. Lynn Ward, Ms. Jessica Adams, Ms. Holly Kilgour (Child and Youth Worker) and others) as well as the community. I want you to know how much I love you and you are a part of my journey. You’re the best!
May the LORD give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.