“I’m an immigrant from Guatemala. I came to San Francisco when I was a teenager.

Right after high school, my family pressured me into marrying this man, my ex. He was very abusive. I endured things that cannot be said for over eight years. I was even hospitalized once.

Despite this, one day my ex called the police and told them I had hit him, which wasn’t true. They refused my pleas and arrested me. I spent five nights in jail and when I was released, I was given an order preventing me from going home. I couldn’t get any money, a change of clothes, or see my children. With nowhere to go, I ended up living in my car on the street.

I had a trial coming up on whether or not I’d be allowed back in my home. I went to five different agencies and asked for help: they all turned me down. I got really depressed, but I decided I had to keep fighting for my children.

Then I found Open Door Legal. They helped me get back into my house, full custody of my children, child support, and a divorce. I would be a totally different person now without their help. I am so grateful to this organization that I actually started working here! This place has changed my life.”

Photography © Dale Tan