The Story of Amina

When she first got involved with the Better Way Detroit, Amina described herself as a “hot head.” She had gotten into trouble at the shelter where she was living. “I was really angry,” she said. But one of the Better Way program mentors became like a “second mother” to her. “I call her my Christian mom,” said Amina. “She came into my life at a rough time.”

Better Way describes itself as a program that works to “provide dignity to people experiencing homelessness in the city of Detroit.” Amina credits Better Way with “drastically” changing her life for the better. A mother of three children, she now has a full-time job, is engaged to be married and lives in a three-bedroom home. “I am in the midst of getting my driver’s license,” she added, saying the program helped her with things like putting together a resume and developing a “work ethic.”

“Without them (Better Way Detroit) I wouldn’t have done this, really,” she said. “I am really thankful for them. They gave me a second chance.”

“They do more than just provide you with a job,” she said. “There are a lot of different things they taught me. They inspire you to do better. They are like a family. Even afterwards. I met friends there I am still very close with. We all still get together.”

Amina suggests those considering becoming involved with Better Way should keep an open mind. “Whatever you are going through or need help with, don’t be shy,” she said. “Ask for help. They will help you.”

Amina said Better Way even helped improve her faith life. Every other Saturday she now participates in an online Bible Study through the program. “I come from a Christian background,” she said. “Once I got older though, I veered off. There was a lot I didn’t know. I have my own Bible now. If I don’t understand stuff or have questions, I can contact them.”