Born into a family marked by addiction, Melissa Davenport’s early years were full of challenges. Adopted by her aunt and uncle at a young age, Melissa longed for connection and sought it in the wrong places. Her life took a dramatic turn following her high school graduation, and it wasn’t until she found Hand UP for Women that she began to truly transform—not only her present but her future as well.
Struggles, Arrest and a Turning Point
In 2014, at the age of 24, Melissa was arrested for what she calls “young and dumb” decisions. With no career path in mind, she ended up with a felony on her record. Seeking comfort and healing from her childhood trauma, she turned to drugs in hopes of finding the connection and love she desperately needed. It was a long and difficult road to recovery, but getting clean was just the beginning of her journey to self-discovery and redemption.
While in jail, Melissa began taking steps toward rebuilding her life. “It was very hard,” she says, reflecting on her time behind bars. But it was also during this time that she found the Lord through FOCUS Ministries, a program dedicated to offering hope in Christ to incarcerated and newly released women. After her release in 2015, Melissa went to a halfway house, where she first learned about Hand UP for Women —a discovery that would change everything.
A New Path Through Hand UP for Women
Hand UP for Women embraced Melissa with open arms, offering her a network of mentors and friends who supported her every step of the way. “It was an excellent experience,” Melissa recalls. “I gained many mentors and friends.” The program’s twice-weekly classes taught her crucial life skills like character development, financial responsibility, job ethics, and even resume writing. Through Bible studies and God-centered teachings, she began to strengthen her faith. “Directing my attention to God helped me with my walk with the Lord,” she says.
The guidance and support from Hand UP’s staff and leaders helped Melissa set goals and work toward achieving them. In 2017, she proudly graduated from the ministry, marking a significant milestone in her recovery and transformation. “It’s a network of trustworthy people who are supportive in my life now,” Melissa shares. “I’m willing to do anything for them and vice versa to help me.”
A Life Rebuilt and a Bright Future
Now, Melissa describes herself as a career-focused and God-centered woman – fully embracing the growth and change she’s experienced. “I have rehabilitated myself to the best point,” she says, her words full of both confidence and humility.
A significant part of Melissa’s transformation has been the lasting relationship with Eva Pierce, the Executive Director of Hand UP for Women. “Eva is like a mother I never had,” Melissa explains. “The work she does is very important.” Hand UP for Women is not just about providing a “hand out,” but rather offering a life-management and career-readiness program that helps women break the cycle of hardship. For Melissa, the community at Hand UP has become a second family that has been instrumental in her journey.
Looking back, Melissa describes her life now as a 180-degree turn from where she started. “I have a college degree in welding technology. I live on my own. I have faith. I just have a life I didn’t even know I could have,” she reflects. Although women make up just 5% of the welding industry, Melissa takes pride in the career she is building and the life she is crafting.
With a bright future ahead, Melissa’s goals are now focused on independence and growth. “I see myself eventually being able to purchase a home and taking care of myself. Having a community to do that with means everything,” she shares.
To learn more about Hand UP for Women, check out the About Us section here.