Meet April.
“I probably started coming here almost 6 years ago when the Dudley opened. I moved here from Rapid City, I didn’t know anyone or any of the resources. I remember a taxi brought me in and I had two big bags of clothes and it was snowing and cold. The staff let me in even though it was past check-in and all the bunks were full because they didn’t want me sleeping out in the snow. I used to be a drug user and now that I’m clean I encourage people to go to the Bishop and use their resources. I feel like total strangers have helped me more than my own family sometimes. Everyone is welcome here, no matter if they have been drinking or using drugs, and I was given the same level of courtesy and resources as everyone else.
I’m excited to say I just got an apartment! It’s near downtown and I don’t even need a TV because I can watch everything happening in the neighborhood! I am starting a new job at John Morrell’s next week in general productions. I’m really excited for my new job! Once I have a steady income I am going to have a savings account and a backup plan so I can stay ahead of bills. I also signed up for cosmetology school at Stewart’s and I start in September! I’m going to get certified in hair, nails, and makeup. I’m not sure if I want to work in a salon but I do want to learn more and grow those skills.
My daughter, Jaylah, and I are all each other have. She is everything to me. I moved through foster homes as I was growing up and don’t have a strong connection with my parents but Jaylah and I have a special bond. I’m excited to get her back so we can have a home together. My goals right now are to get my apartment furnished and my daughter back living with me. I appreciate the Bishop Dudley House for helping me make it to this point!”