Mary, 36

Children were taken away by the Department of Children and Family Services

Mary was a working parent with three children when she was diagnosed with mental illness. After having a psychotic breakdown, her children were taken away from her by the Department of Children and Family Services. She ended up homeless for a few years and was later picked up by police. This led to hospitalization and professional help. After being placed in a homeless transitional housing program, she was accepted into one of HFLF”s programs.

“Now I live in peace with my birds. I’m also able to stay in touch with my children because now I can afford a cell phone.”