Woman Formerly Addicted to Drugs, Has a New Life in the New Year

A new year for some means turning over a new lease on life.

But sometimes that new lease comes with a lot of dedication, determination and hard work.

Melissa Ferrell and her daughter Zadie, are turning the key to their room at our house in Little Rock, for the last time.

It's been two years since Melissa decided she needed help and a safe place for her kids.

"I went back to using drugs in 2009."

Melissa had hit rock bottom, moving into a drug house with the kids and working a part - time job.

"They had to live behind a fence, behind a camera, I said the hell with it, I'm not going to do this anymore."

So she made the transition to our house, took a volunteer position, got her high school diploma and stayed clean.

"I remember two years ago when Melissa walked through our gates, said Executive Director Georgia Mjartan. She was so desperate, she was in a state of despair, added Mjartan."

Just the foundation Melissa needed to achieve her vision, get a car, learn basic job skills and having their own home.

And while there is a ton to do, first things first.

"We prayed over it, like when we aren't here that our house would be safe."

Melissa's message to other families in the new year looking to make a change.

"Don't be prideful, go there, it's okay for someone to believe in you and give you some dignity and give you your self respect back."

Our house has over 100 people living at their facility on any given night.

Each year they serve one thousand homeless people.

And these aren't just people in Arkansas, but people come here from almost 30 different states.

You can find out more about Our House at 501-374-7383.

Or visit their website at www.ourhouseshelter.org.