Sheila’s troubles started when she suffered her first rape at 13. After a stint in the hospital, she was raped again by a different person. Sheila found out she was pregnant from the first one. Her mom used to beat Sheila during this time. As an adult, Sheila was abused by her husband with whom she has a son, Jeff, who is eleven. She has been divorced from him for nine years, although he still occasionally harasses her and has threatened her to the point that she has contacted the police. Sheila is unable to collect child support from her husband. Not long ago, she moved in with a woman who became abusive to Sheila. She attempted to strangle Sheila until finally Jeff called the police.
Jeff has major medical needs as he suffers from Crohn’s disease. He is regularly hospitalized at a local children's hospital. Sheila worries about Jeff’s health, the fact that he is depressed, and that they must find somewhere to live that is safe. Sheila really wants to work and has held some good positions in human resources, staffing, and administrative work. She has an Associates Degree in Business Administration and has completed the coursework (with honors) for a certificate in Medical Coding. She just needs to take the final exam and get the actual certification which she can’t afford right now. It is difficult for Sheila to keep continous work because of the time she has to take off due to Jeff’s health. She continues to search for work and has applied for positions recently.
Sheila has an older car that is need of repair. She receives food stamps and No More Tears provided her with money, clothing and food for herself and Jeff. She needs help finding somewhere to live, some rent assistance until she finds work, and help getting work.