Think of the hottest day we had this summer in August; now put yourself in a tent with a 2-year-old that was only in a pull-up because of the intense heat. It does not sound like an enjoyable experience but that is where Violet lived for a short time without much food or money. Their story starts farther back, and for 6 years she was in an abusive relationship with her daughter’s father. Violet endured physical, verbal, emotional, financial, and mental abuse. She tried to leave but after each attempt things would get worse. When she found out she was pregnant, she hoped the abuse would stop but it did not. Eventually, Violet found the courage to leave with her daughter, and she ended up in Minnesota with her mom and dad. Once again Violet was working to support everyone, as she had done in the past; her pay was being taken by her parents, but they were not paying the bills as expected. It wasn’t very long until they were all kicked out of the hotel where they were living. Her parents packed up the car. They told Violet and her 2-year-old daughter that there was no room in the car for them and they drove off, leaving Violet and her daughter standing by the side of the road. A friend offered them a tent because there was no room in their house. So again, imagine a tent in August during the hottest days of the year.

A friend took her to see a pastor in New Ulm and they were told about NUMAS Haus. They called NUMAS Haus and while waiting for a call back, they all prayed together. NUMAS Haus called back-there was a move out happening the same day and therefore an opening! Violet and her daughter moved into NUMAS Haus with the clothes they were wearing and a few items of non-perishable foods. Because of the amazing donors at NUMAS Haus, we were able to help Violet and her daughter with their basic needs and even some extras to create smiles and hope. While at Numas Haus, Violet learned how to budget her own money and pay bills, learned some important parenting techniques and how to be a good tenant through the RentWise program at NUMAS Haus. Violet is now working at her dream job and living in her own apartment! Her daughter is attending pre-school and daycare. Violet is super excited to be working on her driver’s permit and is so thankful to our amazing donors, volunteers and NUMAS Haus for all the help and what she’s learned while here.