I grew up in motels and was constantly on drugs. At age 13, I started trying to commit suicide; hanging myself, overdosing on drugs, cutting myself. My parents have been divorced since I was 11.

Five years later, my dad kicked me out of his house. I’ve been on the street since age 16. It was really, really hard but I managed to graduate from high school. When I turned 18, I got a steady boyfriend. We were in and out of motels, parks, alleys and a car for two years. Winter was the worst. We would stay dry and try to sleep in big hotel lobbies or in coffee houses when it rained.

I always had jobs here and there, but even if I could save up enough money, who was going to rent an apartment to me? My boyfriend is older than me and he didn’t want me to live my life on the streets. He found the number for the House of Hope.

It’s been really hard being here. When I was on the streets, I was extremely violent — always getting into fights. I never cried or laughed — I was always angry. Now my whole attitude is changing. I’m learning self-control. I want to learn about stability, how to keep a job, how to keep a house. I didn’t learn it from Mom or Dad — so how would I know any of that? I’m only 20, so maybe it’s not too late.

Give them a hot meal and the warmth of God’s love.

In wintertime, there are not enough shelter beds in Orange County. We have to turn people away. It’s tragic. Even a young man who is soaking wet on a park bench in 40° weather will be chilled to the bone within hours. For an older man, malnourished, weak and ill — it can kill him. Your gifts provide beds, blankets, medical care and referrals to homeless people during chilling winter months. Yes, you’ll save lives and bring basic compassion to hurting people. But your gifts to the Mission also provide hope — a second chance. WE NEED YOUR HELP. Please return the enclosed Survival Coupon with your gift today!

Top 10 Things You Should Know About Winters in Orange County

1. Average rainfall in January: 3.18 in.
2. Record low temperature in January: 22.0° F.
3. Never sleep with your shoes on. Moist, cold socks and shoes lead to immersion foot — numbness, swelling and blisters.
4. Elderly people in the cold are at high risk for hypothermia.
5. Putting plastic bags over your feet is an inexpensive way to keep them dry.
6. To sleep outside, you should have a minimum of three pieces of cardboard to lay on the ground and two blankets.
7. Weakened immune systems (from poor diet, exposure and addiction) lead to more colds.
8. Untreated colds can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia and in some cases, death.
9. Our Medical Rescue Vehicle gives free medical treatment to about 5,000 people each year.
10. Just $7.78 given to the Mission can provide a cold, hungry, desperate person with a hot meal, a warm bed and a chance at a new life.

During winter, it’s freezing at 5:00 a.m. I remember shivering and having convulsions, I was so cold. I’d walk for miles trying to keep warm. When I stood still, I got depressed. You can’t really sleep. I would take some drugs over to someone’s house. I’d get them high and then I’d use their shower, phone and washing machine.

It’s dangerous out at night. You have to be suspicious of everyone — even your best friend. Everyone needs something and they’ll take it from you. You have to get tough and mean and selfish. I started taking drugs at age 13, selling at 16. I’ve been in and out of prison for the last 10 years. I had gotten violent with the wrong people. I knew they were out for me, so I got on my knees and prayed to God for help — promising I’d stop the drugs.

I got a ride here to the Mission and I have a whole new life. But I have to re-learn everything. How to study the Word of God. How to keep a support group of churches, recovery meetings and Christian friends. How to trust someone. I’ve just graduated from trucking school and found a new career. In 30 days, I start a new job!