.jpg)
Union Gospel Mission's Charis Centre is a place where women who've come from deep trauma and addiction can find living hope through Jesus Christ.
Growing Up in a Broken Home
"I came from an abusive home," says Nicole, who currently resides at the Charis Centre. "At the age of 6, my parents divorced."
At that time, Nicole and her siblings went into the foster care system for a time.
"I was bounced around in different foster homes. In one of the foster homes, I went to Gimli Bible Camp. One song stuck with me, which was 'This Little Light of Mine.'"
Nicole ended up living with her mother again, which was unhealthy for her.
"More abuse happened. We were often on our own, being left home alone and had to fend for ourselves. When my mom was sober, we would attend Sunday School."
Drugs and Exploitation
Around the age of 12, Nicole tried drugs for the first time.
"I tried marijuana, alcohol, drugs, whatnot. I would have a group of friends come over as my place was the hangout."
Nicole's mother wasn't deterred by the behaviour but rather enabled it, according to Nicole, as she would provide the alcohol.
"In grade eight, I dropped out of school. From there I got into prostitution. I got pregnant at 16."
Nicole became a mother by the age of 17 with her first son. After trying to raise him, Nicole knew she was in over her head, and ended up putting her son in care. That's when she starting using again.
Nicole found herself in and out of jail during this time in her life as well.
A Fresh Start
During her time in the penitentiary, Nicole took an ALPHA course at which point she was introduced to God.
"I did the course and went back a second time. The third time with the ALPHA course, I became a helper. That's when I first got into a relationship with the Lord."
Now Nicole is learning about her intrinsic value in God and healing from so much past trauma at the Charis Centre, with other women who can relate to many of her experiences.
Join CHVN live during the Nobody But Jesus Radiothon in support of UGM, including the Charis Centre. It's live on air, 95.1 FM, throughout June 11-12.