Our Stories

“I got unexpectedly pregnant with an IUD. I had a 16 month old baby already. My partner was abusive and not providing at all. I had severe nausea with vomiting the whole day and night so I wasn’t able to work. I don’t have family in America or close friends who were able to help me. And at one point my phone was shut off, I had 3 diapers left, no food, and no clothes. At first I was scared and didn’t trust. I didn’t know what help I could get, didn’t expect anything…

But SHIFRA took care of most of my problems. Words can’t describe the amount of love and help that I got. Diapers, crib, even a grant to start my own business.

You saved me and my boys. You changed my life… because of you one more boy was born. I’ll raise them as good Jewish boys who will give and help other people. I’ll tell them when they grow up how once SHIFRA and her donors helped us, so they can have a big heart like you too.”

“The father of my baby had left us. My parents are gone – I don’t have family who could help me. Even though I was working, I became homeless living on the beach. My SHIFRA counselor changed my life. Without them I would have been still homeless, praying for a hot shower. I had clothes on me only because they bought me maternity clothes. I would literally have lost my baby due to no housing. Being a mom saved my life – it gave me a meaning. I have never experienced this kind of love- I am extremely happy. My baby boy is a treasure. Thank you for giving me a family I do not have. Thank you for never abandoning me. I love you guys- you saved my life.”

“I called out of desperation and loneliness. I was feeling very overwhelmed with my young child at home, scared to go through the physical challenges of pregnancy again, and was not feeling very connected in my marriage. I didn’t know who to talk to who would take my concerns seriously and help me. [When I talked with a SHIFRA counselor] I felt relieved to have someone listen without judgment.

I’ve learned that there is help out there if you take the time to look for it and you accept it. My baby is here with us because of SHIFRA. The whole team goes above and beyond to be there for women in their time of need, and it made the biggest difference in my life.”

“I have significant health issues- I am not supposed to be physically capable of pregnancy. Money is also very tight. My husband and I never planned to have children.

And yet… my baby was sent to me to save my life. He’s the gift I never knew I needed. He’s perfect, happy and healthy. The love I’ve been surrounded by, including SHIFRA and your extreme generosity, is like nothing I’ve ever felt!”

“I was planning to terminate my pregnancy. This would be our third child in three years. I didn’t want to give up on my baby, but I didn’t know how I could possibly do this… SHIFRA gave me the tools and confidence I needed to mother all my children with love.”