“You’ll lose weight, you’ll have more energy, you’ll focus better on work, you’ll do everything better.” Those are the lies that Alicia was told by her new boyfriend. The reality was that while using meth Alicia’s life was falling apart. When she became more reliant on the drugs, her boyfriend became more abusive and exploited her addiction.

After a violent attack, Alicia found herself fearing for her life. Recovering from her wounds in a hospital she was finally able to get the help she needed for her addictions and abuse.

Coming into UGM’s LifeChange for Women and Their Children during the COVID-19 pandemic, Alicia had the opportunity to focus on healing and connecting with God. “When I first came to LifeChange I was scared of everyone and everything. But now, I sleep sound, I wake up refreshed looking forward to the day,” says Alicia. “I can smile again, coming to UGM literally saved my life.”

“UGM literally saved my life”

— Alicia

Shortly after Alicia came to LifeChange for Women and Their Children she was able to have her 17-year-old daughter join her. “I’ve been able to work on my own trust issues,” explains Alicia’s daughter Isabella. “Seeing the change in my mom’s life and being able to bond with her has helped me to be able to grow up.”

Alicia has a passion for learning and for helping others. She is looking forward to being able to minister to other people in all walks of life. Isabella is working on a plan to go to college and become a forensic pathologist. “I’m looking forward to learning how to become self-sufficient,” says Isabella.

“We are thankful for the opportunity that UGM has given us. We appreciate the care and compassion that the donors have shown. It’s a blessing to have a safe healthy environment to heal, but mostly thank you for showing us love.”

UGM’s LifeChange is a Christ-centered recovery program where residents live and work in a community of people committed to transforming their lives and breaking the grip of addiction. LifeChange consists of counseling, work therapy, discipleship, and transitional after care, at no cost to the resident.

If you know of a woman battling addiction, homelessness, or domestic abuse and she is interested in a life change, contact LifeChange for Women and Their Children at 503-802-2271.