Rising from the Ashes: Danyale’s Story of Redemption and Hope

In 2020, Danyale was forced to resign from her job at Wendy’s for not having adequate transportation. Shortly after, she became a victim of identity theft and started experiencing depression.

When she came to Atlanta in 2021, all she had were the clothes on her back. “It was devastating, to say the least,” Danyale said. “I'd never been in a position where I literally didn’t know what I was going to do.”

Eventually, she got connected with City of Refuge. “They told me, ‘The doors are open for you. You're more than welcome here.’ I couldn't believe it. I felt like I had been saved.”

Experiencing Hope in Eden Village

In July of 2021, Danyale arrived at Eden Village, City of Refuge’s housing facility for women and children. She started working with a Case Manager who helped her get a new ID, birth certificate, and Social Security card. She also encouraged Danyale to go back to school. 

Soon after, Danyale enrolled in a class and got her GED. Around the same time, City of Refuge hosted a job fair on campus. Through the event, she landed a full-time job at UPS. 

“He Made Me Rise from the Ashes”

But Danyale isn’t done yet. Not by far. She’s now pursuing a career as a registered nurse at Atlanta Tech. “How far I've come is just overwhelming,” she said. “Nobody in my family has been to college. I’m the first. And now I'm on my way to a rewarding career.” 

As she considers her journey, Danyale sees God’s kindness and providence. “He made me rise from the ashes. I would've never gone back to school without the courage to do it or the right mentors to push me forward.”
When asked what she would say to City of Refuge supporters, Danyale was emphatic: 

“You can't imagine what you're doing for the community. When I see people going to these classes for free, I know that love is real. You're restoring hope in the community.” 

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