Brianna’s Chance To Be Herself

July 1, 2025

I know it’s hard to imagine, but before coming to our door many of Mercy Home’s children never knew what it was like to be cared for and loved. It is only because of the love and support they receive from friends like you that kids like Brianna get a second chance at a happy childhood.

Brianna’s father never raised a hand to her, but over the years, he still wounded her deeply. When his wife died shortly after Brianna’s birth, he turned to alcohol for comfort, and all throughout Brianna’s childhood he struggled with this terrible addiction.

Unable to hold down a job for more than a few months at a time, Brianna’s dad couldn’t possibly provide a safe environment for his daughter to grow. He tried to keep up with the bills—but his illness made fulfilling his responsibilities impossible. There was no money to support them, and Brianna often had to wear clothes that were worn out or too small. Both would go days without eating a proper meal.

Sometimes Brianna’s father would disappear for days—even whole weeks on end—leaving his daughter home alone to care for herself. It was during these long nights alone that Brianna had to remind herself that her father truly loved her, even if sometimes it was too difficult for her to believe.

Brianna’s father never raised a hand to her, but over the years, he still wounded her deeply.

On those lonely nights, Brianna tried to convince herself that her father was safe, thinking of her, and doing his best to come home. But when her father would promise he loved her then later desert her, it was nothing but confusing.

Brianna started to believe that nobody would ever truly love and protect her. And what’s worse, she began to believe it wasn’t even something she deserved to have.

When Brianna and her father were finally evicted from their apartment because they couldn’t afford the rent, Brianna knew that she could not end up on the streets. So, one of her school counselors helped her father into a program that would deal with his alcoholism and keep him safe. And Brianna, seeking the love and security of a stable family, found her way to Mercy Home.

It took her a long time to believe that my coworkers cared about her, because she still struggled to believe her father did.

Coming to our Home was a big change for Brianna. She was used to being alone most of the time, and now she’s always surrounded by the other girls and my coworkers. It took her a long time to believe that my coworkers cared about her, because she still struggled to believe her father did. But slowly, she came to trust that her Mercy Home family wanted the best for her. Today, she’s on a much better path.

I wish you could see what a difference you’ve made for Brianna. Recovering from all she has experienced in her young life won’t be easy but knowing there are loving friends and Partners in Prayers like there to support her makes all the difference. Your prayers are what gives her the strength and hope she needs to heal. Thank you.

Please note: Because we care deeply about protecting our children’s privacy, the names and certain identifying details in this story have been changed.