I first would like to thank God for allowing me to be a product of such a wonderful organization like the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. I’ve been a resident at Herrington Homestead for five years, and it has truly been my biggest blessing.
I remember 13-year-old me just as broken, lost, and scared as she could be when I walked into Ruby Cottage. I take myself back to that day and remind myself, despite my circumstances, it could have been way worse. I remember being greeted when I walked in with love and empathy by the most loving, caring, selfless, inspirational and motivating women I’ve ever met, who is now the most important person in my life: Ms. Phyllis Strobridge. I believe if she could give her whole life to me, she truly would.
There was a time in my life when I was the most negative-minded and angry person anyone had ever met. She sat me down and talked to me, letting me know that everything happens for a reason and that one day, things will be different and I would appreciate these difficult times. While living at Herrington Homestead, I got the chance to do things that most teenagers would call “normal,” like drive to school, hang out with friends, and grow a bond with their family. I’ve gained lifetime friendships with my house mates, and a sense of parenthood from my house parents.
I am the oldest sibling of five, coming from a home with a single parent who let drugs take over. I’ve been in and out of foster homes along with incomplete adoptions since the age of nine. During those stages of life, I figured I had no purpose. I always wondered what was different about me and why no one wanted me or–better said–“didn’t want to deal with me.” Then God gave me my reason. On July 21, 2018, I was placed at the amazing Herrington Homestead! Along my journey, I began to figure out who I wanted to be in life. Now I am an honor graduate from Swainsboro High School, along with many other accomplishments like Highest Achievement Awards and Senior Superlative. I plan on attending Augusta University to major in neuroscience.
None of this would be possible without all of the important people who play major roles in the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Thank you for all of your support.