A letter from Sonja - her first night off Skid Row

A letter to share from Sonja Fletcher:

To my dear new friends,

I met Juan on Skid Row in September of 2016 and we started dating in October. Sometimes, circumstances cause us to lean on one another for help. When I came to Skid Row in August of last year from Minnesota, I knew I could not make it on my own. On Skid Row, it’s not safe for a single woman to be by herself because there are so many rapists and murderers who are being released from prison every day. Most of the relationships on Skid Row are done for safety, not because of real feelings for each other.

Juan proposed to me and wanted us to get married after just a few months but I wanted to wait because I wasn’t sure that I was ready. After meeting Sunny and seeing how a woman can be independent and strong on her own, I knew I needed to make a clear decision now if I wanted to get married and stay on Skid Row or if I wanted to try and get back on my feet and get myself stable first so I could communicate with my kids who are now 9 and 11 and give them something to be proud of. It was not an easy decision to make because I was scared but I’m proud to say that I am ready to take care of myself and my children. Now that I have gotten a chance to work in an office, I’ve realized how much I enjoy working again and feel great waking up every day because I feel like I have purpose. I’ve been so inspired and overwhelmed by the love that I have received by meeting all of you at the event and it’s encouraged me so much.

I’ve made the choice to separate from Juan for now until I get myself settled and after that I need to decide my next steps. He and I can just be friends and I will always care for him, but it’s important for me to be able to be on my own and not rely on anyone to make a way for me and I thank God for giving me wisdom and helping me make a clear decision so I can focus my life on helping others and glorifying God.

As of Wednesday, August 9, 2017, I have left Skid Row. Marina was kind enough to offer to let me stay at her house until I can find a place of my own. With Sunny’s help and encouragement, I am looking for a permanent place for me and we are praying to have me move in by September 1. Thank you for your prayers and your kindness.
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Sonja