“In the beginning of our marriage, he was very abusive and controlling.”

The physical abuse had ended, but the mental, emotional, and financial abuse continued. I took off numerous times and went back because it was familiar.

I just woke up one morning and was like, I can’t do this anymore. I have custody of my grandson and packed his things. My best friend came and got me.

I was on the verge of going back home, but my daughter had a co-worker who told her about this place. Thank God GreenHouse17 picked up the phone and had a bed for me.

I was there from October to the end of March. They helped me balance my biggest issues and taught me boundaries. I’ve always said that I was a caretaker, but sometimes people can abuse that.

There was another young lady at the shelter, and we became really close. She asked if I’d be willing to keep her dog, Roscoe. He’s been with me ever since.

I’m so glad I was able to keep him. I didn’t know if I could do it because I’ve never owned a pet before. I’ve cried with Roscoe, talked to him.

Transitioning into my new apartment was scary. Every little noise made me think, is someone here with me? I don’t know what I would have done without this fella. Emotionally, he is my everything.

Don’t give up hope. Just reach out. It doesn’t matter your situation—there’s always help. I know what it’s like to be afraid. It’s hard, I get it. But you can do it.

This is only part of Tanya’s story, in her own words, shared with permission.