In 2013, Shawnte found herself facing one of the hardest moments of her life: pregnant with her third child and abandoned by the baby’s father when she refused to have an abortion. Feeling lost and unsure of where to turn, she didn’t know that hope was already waiting just around the corner.

Her mother had unknowingly scheduled what she thought was an abortion appointment, but instead, Shawnte met someone who offered a different path, one that saved not only her baby’s life but her own. Through that encounter, she was introduced to Mary’s Shelter, a maternity home that surrounded her with love, stability, and faith when she needed it most.

On July 27, 2014, Shawnte welcomed her beautiful daughter, Bella, into the world. Today, Shawnte is an ordained minister whose experience at Mary’s Shelter continues to inspire her work. Now contracted through the court system, she helps women in similar situations find the support and strength they need to keep their children. What began as a moment of fear has become a powerful testimony of redemption, courage, and God’s grace.