Teresa's Story
From Hopelessness to a Life Filled with Purpose
“The way I was raised, I just kind of pushed everything down. I never felt able to stand up for myself.”
There was a time when Teresa Eyerly believed her story was over.
Raised in Salem, Teresa found herself trapped in alcoholism, broken relationships, isolation, and overwhelming despair. After multiple suicide attempts and years of believing she had no future, she reached a place where she had nowhere left to turn.
With no home and no hope, she began calling Simonka Place every day, praying someone would answer.
They did.
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh without fear of the future” Proverbs 31:25
When Teresa walked through the doors of Simonka Place, she arrived exhausted, hurting, and uncertain if life could ever be different. During her first month, she focused on becoming sober, but God was already beginning a deeper work. Through the New Life Fellowship program, biblical counseling, chapel, caring staff, and a community of women who walked beside her, Teresa discovered something she had never known before—she was deeply loved by God.
As she immersed herself in Scripture, healing replaced shame. Truth overcame the lies she had believed about herself. Women she once struggled to trust became lifelong sisters in Christ. What began as recovery became complete restoration.
Today, Teresa’s life tells a different story.
She volunteers with Union Gospel Mission, serves faithfully in her church, and looks for opportunities every day to encourage others with the love of Christ. Whether she is talking with a neighbor, riding the bus, or serving alongside others, she knows every conversation is an opportunity to share hope.
Teresa often reflects on one verse that now defines her life:
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh without fear of the future” Proverbs 31:25
That laughter was once impossible.
Today it is real.
Teresa’s journey reminds us that no life is beyond God’s reach. Where there was addiction, there is freedom. Where there was loneliness, there is community. Where there was despair, there is joy.
Because Hope Happens Here.
