My life at Herrington Homestead has been my biggest blessing! I have experienced amazing things while living here that I would not have had the opportunity to if I had lived elsewhere. Growing up with five siblings and a single mother was very hard. I never had the chance to go out to eat, go shopping, or go on a vacation. Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes made all of these wonderful adventures possible.
House parents and office staff have been supportive of me for nearly three and one-half years. They push, support and encourage me to be the best person I can be and to participate in extracurricular activities at Swainsboro High School. My grades have improved along with my athletic abilities. I play softball, soccer and participated in FBLA.
I would like to give a special “Thank You” message to Ms. Phyllis Strobridge and to Mrs. Candace Hutcheson. Ms. Phyllis, thank you for always taking me to church and motivating me by teaching me that I can do or be anything in the world if I just put my mind to it. Thank you for reminding me how pretty I am, even when I didn’t think so myself. Thank you for always listening when I needed to talk to someone, and most of all thank you for all the laughs we’ve had together. Mrs. Candace, thank you for always caring for me. Thank you for always making the children at Ruby Cottage feel like they have a home. Thank you for comforting me when I needed comfort and making us breakfast every morning before school. Most of all, thank you for always taking yourpersonal time to make us feel special. I love both of you, and I can’t wait to make you happy one day by giving back to you and Ms. Phyllis as you two have given me.
Last, but not least, I want to thank all of the Youth Homes supporters and our sheriffs. You do not know most of the children personally, but I want to let you know that you provide safe homes where children can focus on their abilities instead of survival in a world that can be cruel to children. You are wonderful!
I’m beyond grateful. I will never forget Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. You paved the way for me, and I will not let you down. Thank you all so much!