We're all wALKING THROUGH LIFE FOR THE FIRST TIME. gRACE COSTS NOTHING- JUDGEMENT DOES.

My name is Jojo and the seed for Sunflower Safe Haven was planted long before the nonprofit ever had a name. I became a mother as a teenager, navigating adulthood while raising a child and learning how to survive systems, pressure, and expectations that weren’t built with young mothers in mind. I remember wishing for a place where I could ask for help without being judged, looked down on, or talked to like I was less than. A place where I could breathe.

Back then, there wasn’t a space like that for me.

So I built one for others — a space I once needed myself.

The “sunflower” part of this mission carries its own meaning. It’s the nickname Jason gave me when we were young — before responsibilities, before the heavy seasons, before life started testing everything we thought we knew. Sunflowers turn toward the light even when the sky looks dark. That’s exactly what this Haven stands for: resilience, warmth, direction, and hope. A reminder that even in the hardest moments, you can still choose to reach for light.

And while this letter comes from me, I’ll always acknowledge the truth — I didn’t walk this path alone. Jason supported me and our children through some of the toughest chapters of our lives. He showed up, he stayed steady, and he cared for us in ways that made it possible for me to stand tall and build what I’m building now. His support mattered, but the vision and the purpose behind Sunflower Safe Haven come from my lived experience, my growth, and my heart.

I know what it feels like to struggle and still show up.

I know what it feels like to carry a household and have nothing left for yourself.

I know what it feels like to want better for your children than what you ever had access to.

I know what it feels like to be overlooked while doing everything possible to stay afloat.

And I know what it feels like to rebuild from scratch — again and again — with no praise, no applause, just determination.

That strength, that journey, and that truth are woven into every part of Sunflower Safe Haven.

This space exists for women who need real support, not judgment.

For the mothers who always find a way, even when the way is hard.

For the women who’ve been dismissed, misunderstood, or underestimated.

For the ones who give and give and still feel like nobody sees how much weight they carry.

And one of the biggest reasons I created Sunflower Safe Haven is because too many mothers are forced to run all over the city just to get the basics — diapers from one place, food from another, hygiene items somewhere else, clothes from a different organization. By the time help comes, the process has drained you. I wanted to build a space where you don’t have to chase resources. A true one-stop shop where you can walk in, breathe, and get what you need in one place.

Sunflower Safe Haven is here for:

• The mother doing her best and still coming up short.
• The woman who needs diapers, wipes, food, clothing, or hygiene items for her children.
• The parent who needs community and real resources — not judgment.
• The woman who feels overwhelmed but refuses to give up.
• The woman who needs a safe place to reset, breathe, and be treated with dignity.
• The mother who is tired of being strong alone.

Our mission is centered on dignity, compassion, and real support:

• Practical assistance for mothers and families who need immediate help.
• Resources and guidance to help women stabilize and move forward.
• A judgment-free environment where humanity matters more than mistakes.
• A healing community built on support, not shame.
• A culture of encouragement where women build each other up instead of tearing each other down.
• A pathway forward, not just a temporary fix.

My dream extends far beyond a supply closet or a quick solution. I envision a full community — mini apartment homes where women and their children can rest, rebuild, and reclaim their futures. A place where they can breathe without fear, rest without guilt, and heal without pressure. A true Haven, designed with intention and heart.

And if you’re reading this during a hard season, let me speak to you directly:

You are not broken.

You are not failing.

You are a human being walking through life for the first time, just like the rest of us — and you deserve support, compassion, and a safe place to land.

Healing takes time. Growth takes courage. Asking for help takes strength. If no one has told you this today: you are worthy of support and you are allowed to start again.

From my heart to yours, thank you for trusting Sunflower Safe Haven, whether you’re reaching out for help, offering your support, or standing with us in this mission. You are part of this field now, and there is space for you here.

With love and strength,

Jojo 

Founder, Sunflower Safe Haven