Geraldine has reached their fundraising goal on HandUp!

Why I'm using HandUp for my basic needs.

I've lived here for seven years and I've had the same household goods, often donations. I would like to be able to purchase my own household goods for the first time.

About me.

I was born and raised in Oakland, CA. I have struggled with addiction for the majority of my life. I grew up in an alcoholic home, and a home full of abuse. I moved to different areas to begin a new life, but things continued to get worse and I became homeless. I got into a shelter in Berkeley and stayed there for 9 months. I got a job, attended church and went to support groups so I could learn how to take care of myself again. I got into housing in Fremont and have been stably housed since 2011, in the same apartment, in the same building. I love to work and attending my meetings. It will feel so good once I can finally do the things I love again!

My backstory.

I've had a lot of pain and struggles in my life, but God brought me this far. I have 7 children, 18 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. I have struggled with addictions for a long time. When my mother passed away my whole world shattered. I moved in with my grandmother who raised me. I have had a lot of loss in my life, but I continue to move forward and do the best I can every day.

My goals, moving forward.

I want to get back into college and get back to work. I would love to finish college, get a degree and work with young mothers that have lost faith in themselves and their situations due to drug use or life struggles. I want to start a small business, and create something for my grandchildren to look forward too. It has been a tough road for me, but I am going to work hard and keep learning and growing and being positive.

Other things I'd like to share about myself.

I am the happiest when I am clean, have goals I am working towards, am continuing to dream, and am focused on positive things.