My name is Austin Romines and my mom, Becca, is a graduate of Safe Haven and I want to share what God has done in our lives.
There was a time when drugs had a strong hold on my mom, and as her son, it was painful to watch someone I love struggle.
One of the hardest moments of my life was visiting her in jail. It was something I never imagined I would have to do. Walking into that visitation, not knowing what to expect, took a toll on me mentally. It didn’t just affect me—it affected my dad, my sister, and our entire family. It made me realize that addiction doesn’t just impact one person; it impacts everyone who loves them.
Growing up without my mom being fully present was incredibly difficult. There were so many moments when I wished she could have been there to celebrate milestones, make memories, and simply be my mom. Addiction stole so much from our family.
At the time, I didn’t understand it, but God had a plan for us. There were days when I wondered if things would ever change. Then, through God’s mercy and forgiveness, the Safe Haven program, and Mrs. Linda, my mom found more than recovery—she found Jesus Christ.
She surrendered her life to Him, and the transformation has been incredible. Her life is a testimony of what happens when someone places their complete trust in the Lord.
I watched my mom go from nodding off in the middle of the day because of addiction to waking up every morning with purpose. Today, she has a job she truly cares about and is passionate about. I watched her go from screaming and yelling to speaking with love, offering godly advice, and sharing the love of Jesus.
I am so thankful that God never gave up on my mom. Because HE didn’t, I have my mom back. We get to spend quality time together, make new memories, and make up for the years that addiction took from us.
It is amazing to see her journey—from being consumed by addiction to building a forever home, hosting faith-based community gatherings, and living a life that brings glory to God.