Paula's and Cash’s Path to a Brighter Future

My name is Paula Turner. The day before New Year’s Eve 2024, I made the decision to leave a toxic relationship I’d been in with an alcoholic, of 13 years. I had attempted to leave many times, but always ended up going back because I didn’t have a safe and appropriate place to take my 8-year-old for an extended period of time. I don’t fit the typical “battered woman” stereotype (although physical violence, to me, was a part of it), I don’t need a restraining order; therefore, I don’t qualify for a women’s shelter, or most of the aid that comes from other programs. I also was threatened with losing custody of my son if I didn’t go about it in a certain way. There was little support available from family members, but thankfully, I did find one woman who was willing to take us in and help me gain some independence!

In the last month, we have relocated to a new city, and have been approved to be temporarily added to her lease through March 31, 2025! I am working as much as possible, delivering groceries and packages through the Sparks delivery platform! I’m currently looking for a place for us to live, but could really use some extra assistance with daily needs and a deposit for a place of my own.