Ashley's Story

As 20 year old ROP resident Ashley sits quietly, you can’t help but notice her determination even as she plays a game of Scrabble. Her focused, yet laid back demeanor is inspiring, because despite a grim past, Ashley continues to move forward with a positive attitude.

Ashley’s story began once she moved in with her older sister. She believed that moving in with her sister would be a dream come true and her life would be great. But things couldn’t have been further from the truth. While Ashley’s living situation started off great, her sister began to demean her in private and in public. Her sister also began to tell lies about her and even began to put Ashley’s names in bill which has ruined her credit. In spite of this cruel treatment, Ashley remained at her sister’s house because she felt as if she had nowhere else to turn. But things really got horrible when her sister forced her to do unthinkable acts for money and shelter. Ashley just could not take it anymore.

When the idea was brought up to enter Covenant House, Ashley was a little frightened. She had heard many horror stories about shelters, “people steal and fight at shelters”. Ashley was faced with the decision to either enter CHM or remain at her sister’s house. And with that thought, she entered CHM. Since moving in, her opinion about shelters has changed drastically. Here, she has found friendships, opportunities and new beginnings. Ashley recently graduated from Everest Institute where she studied Massage Therapy. She is now taking classes at Wayne County Community College.

Ashley currently works with Sanders Building Services, assisting with the maintenance and cleanup of Hart Plaza during the festivals. She is also in the internship program which teaches the residents about janitorial work, cooking and fitness. In her spare time, she enjoys singing and being a leadership council president. Ashley lives by the notion that “dreams only come true if you go after them”. And in keeping this in mind, she continues to go forward despite her gloomy past.

To help Ashley and others like her, please donate now.