Over the past two decades, 445 children have arrived at their new Saint Louise House home scared and uncertain. They are the seeds of our garden. They may be sleeping in their own bed for the first time ever after months or even years of sleeping in shelters, on couches, or in a car. They have seen their mom stressed and striving to overcome a myriad of challenges. If they’re in school, they are likely struggling.

“I was 13 years old when my mom and I lost our apartment. My parents got a divorce, which sent my mom into crisis. With no job or steady income, we were forced to move from shelter to shelter and to 15 different homes of family and friends. Once we even slept in the car for several nights. As crazy as it might seem, during that time, I showered at school in the mornings and went about my day as usual.” – Linda

The one thing all the children have – the love of a mother who had the courage to ask Saint Louise House for the help to make a better life and break the cycle of poverty for both generations.

When children come to Saint Louise House, they find refuge in a safe, stable home that provides the foundation for their journey forward.

“As a sophomore, I had to switch schools to be closer to our new home. The move was the best thing that happened. My grades went up, my mom went back to school, my sister was able to go to daycare and, after three years of moving around, we were finally in our own home.” – Linda

The journey forward for children at Saint Louise House includes programs, activities and other individualized services to help them shape and transform their lives by nurturing their abilities, developing life skills, building trusting relationships, and growing both socially and emotionally. Mothers also receive support and information to promote their children’s healthy development.

“Saint Louise House staff helped me live comfortably, apply for college, assisted with necessities and introduced me to other teens in the community who experienced many of the same struggles.” – Linda

For both mothers and the staff, it’s truly a joy to see the children at Saint Louise House grow, thrive, bloom and find their way forward.

“I graduated from high school and now am enrolled at Texas State University. I don’t know how I would have made it without the help and peace of mind of Saint Louise House. My relationship with my mom has gotten stronger. I’m more focused and believe in myself. My family is once again a unit. I can’t thank Saint Louise House enough for all their hard work and impacting my life in so many positive ways.” – Linda