July 2025 Newsletter

Star Joy has lived a life marked by hardship, resilience, and ultimately, hope. From childhood, she endured abuse, first at the hands of her parents and later through relationships that mirrored that early pain. She fought to escape, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of domestic violence that spanned years. But Star’s story is about reclaiming her life and finding safety, support, and a future for herself and her children.

At 19, Star met the father of her children. He was charming, intelligent, and seemingly devoted, traits that drew her in. But once she moved in with him and became pregnant, the love and affection quickly shifted to manipulation, control, and violence. It started small, dismissive remarks, emotional neglect, but soon escalated to verbal abuse, shoving, and, eventually, brutal physical assaults. Isolated from friends and family, Star found herself in a relationship where fear dictated her every move.

Despite numerous attempts to leave, she was pulled back in by manipulation and threats. She called the police, but their interventions often made things worse, sometimes even blaming her for the situation. She endured physical attacks while pregnant, was cut off from any financial independence, and was forced to stay silent in the face of constant betrayal and cruelty.

When Star learned that the father of her children was still married to another woman, the betrayal cut deep. But what finally pushed her toward action was the realization that his abuse extended beyond her, but also to their children and even to animals he brought into the home. She knew she had to leave.

Star continued to try to leave, but her attempts only escalated the violence. Her abuser used her children as leverage, manipulated those around her, and continued to keep her under his control.

During a visit with his children, Star’s abuser took them. For over two years, she was completely cut off from her kids. She searched desperately for them, but he had hidden them, moving across state lines and exploiting the confusion of the COVID-19 pandemic to evade authorities. She relied on faith, prayer, and determination, never giving up hope that she would see them again.

Then, one day, she received a photo of her daughter from her teacher, who happened to be Star’s sister, proof that her children were alive and in school. With renewed determination, she tracked them down and fought in court, armed with years of evidence of abuse. A judge granted her custody and issued a restraining order against her ex-partner. She had won, but the danger was far from over. Within weeks, someone attempted to stab her in front of her children, a chilling reminder that her abuser’s reach extended beyond legal orders.

That’s when she turned to A New Leaf. With nowhere to go and her abuser still pursuing her, the organization provided an immediate lifeline, securing her and her children a hotel room that night. For the first time in years, she felt safe. A New Leaf placed her in a domestic violence shelter, helping her access resources she never knew existed like housing assistance, transportation, childcare, and confidential address protection to keep her abuser from finding her again.

In the two months since returning to A New Leaf’s shelter, she has secured stable employment and was recently approved for permanent housing. Her children will soon reunite with her, each with their own bedroom, a far cry from the instability and fear they once knew.

“Things are really, really starting to fall into place for me now. And honestly, I would not be alive right now if it wasn’t for A New Leaf. They genuinely helped me throughout this process, they did things that they didn’t have to. They went above and beyond for me. And I can tell really, really cared about me and my kids.”

To those who feel trapped, who don’t know where to turn, Star Joy has one message: “You are not stuck. There are people who want to help you. You are stronger than you think, and you are worth saving. Leaving is terrifying, but there is a whole world of support waiting for you.”

Star Joy’s story is no longer about survival. It’s about reclaiming her future, one step at a time.

On June 9th, the kids at A New Leaf’s La Mesita enjoyed an unforgettable field trip, thanks to the generosity of Spinato’s Pizzeria!

Our kids were invited on a joyful outing where they became little chefs for the day! From stretching pizza dough to choosing their favorite toppings, each child got to handcraft their own personal pizza and they had a blast doing it. For many, it was their first experience in a real restaurant kitchen, and their pride showed in every bite.

But Spinato’s didn’t stop there. After the pizza-making fun, each child received a thoughtful gift: a chef’s hat, treats, coloring pages, and even a scoop of gelato to top it all off. The smiles said it all!

At A New Leaf, we know that moments like this make all the difference for children facing tough times. We’re so grateful to Spinato’s for creating a hands-on experience filled with kindness, creativity, and care.

Our most pressing needs right now are:

• Paper towels
• Toilet paper
• Cleaning supplies (Lysol spray, Clorox wipes, disinfectant, dish soap, etc.)
• Men’s and women’s body wash
• Men’s and women’s shampoo
• Men’s and women’s deodorant
• Bath towels and washcloths
• Twin and Queen sheet sets
• Cases of bottled water
• Baby formula
• Cereal and instant oatmeal
• Canned fruit
• Canned beans
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Boxed macaroni and cheese / Instant ramen noodles

Now Accepting Applications!

A New Leaf is thrilled to launch a brand-new opportunity designed specifically for women who believe in the power of purpose, connection, and collective action. The Women’s Giving Circle is now open for applications and we’re inviting you to be part of something truly transformational.

This exclusive initiative brings together women who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in our community. By joining the Women’s Giving Circle, you’ll help direct vital resources to housing and shelter programs that uplift women and families across the Valley. Together, we’ll amplify our voices and our giving to create lasting change, because when women lead with compassion and commitment, lives are changed for the better.

Through regular gatherings and collaborative giving decisions, members of the Circle will help shape the future of A New Leaf’s services. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just beginning your philanthropic journey, this is a chance to make a real difference while connecting with other purpose-driven women.

We are deeply grateful to the generous partners who are helping bring this vision to life: Seniors Helping Seniors, All About Placements, Nothing Bundt Cakes, DelChuterie, and DeBellevue Global Marketing. Their support is helping us build a powerful community of women who give boldly and generously.

Summer is in full swing at La Mesita Housing Community in Mesa, and the energy is contagious! Thanks to the dedication of staff and the incredible support of generous community partners, children and youth experiencing housing instability are enjoying a season filled with joy, learning, and growth

This summer’s programming at La Mesita has been made possible thanks to the financial support of Meta, Summer Youth Program Fund, GPD Employees Foundation, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and the Mahnah Club of the East Valley. Their contributions are providing children with educational enrichment, access to technology, hands-on creative play that ensures a well-rounded and inspiring summer experience.  

Additional community support has come from Salad & Go, who is hosting a Healthy Habits series, teaching children the importance of healthy time management, balanced food choices, and staying physically active. Rack Law Group has created magical memories by organizing meaningful outings, giving children the chance to explore new places. To top it off, Spinato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen treated the kids at La Mesita to a celebratory pizza party, bringing smiles and full bellies. 

These contributions mean the world to us. Every activity, meal, and moment of care nurtures the growth and well-being of children at La Mesita. With continued support, A New Leaf is proud to provide safe, enriching, and empowering spaces for children, this summer and beyond.

With One Voice Breakfast – Raise Your Voice for Survivors

Your attendance at this breakfast sends a clear message: no one should have to live in fear. While the event is free to attend, a donation will be expected, as every dollar makes a meaningful difference.

Tickets are available now! Click below to get your tickets to this remarkable event today!