Fourteen years ago, Sherika Dixon was homeless.
She served in the navy for two years, but after getting injured, she was released on disability.
But shortly after she had her first two kids, Dixon could no longer support the demands of daily life.
“We were out without any place to go and a friend told my mom I could stay with her until I got back on my feet,” said Dixon. “I made a vow to my savior that if I got out of the situation I was in, I would help others.”
Today, Dixon is an education student at USF St. Petersburg. She intends to create a nonprofit residential program that will support homeless female veterans, pregnant teens and women who are victims of abusive relationships.
Dixon named the new organization “Aries Angels” inspired by her astrological sign.
“You think of an angel as someone who is watching over you, guiding you,” Dixon said. “So I put the two together and Aries Angels was born.”
And her dream is big.
Dixon said if she were to win the lottery, she would base the organization’s housing on a farm with therapy animals to help women cope during difficult times as well as a recreation center.
Although lottery odds are not in her favor, she still plans to establish the Angel house between Safety Harbor and Clearwater.
“Our goal is to help them get back on their feet and provide them with a safe haven, a shelter” Dixon said. “Also helping them write resumes and (offering) food and clothing.”
Dixon raises money by working on fundraisers with her husband Deontray.
“I am helping her to obtain sponsorship, as well as publish updates about the happenings revolving around Aries Angel House,” he said. “I squeeze whatever time I can in between my busy work schedule.”
The couple said they hope to host a walkathon in the summer to help with the organizations’ building costs.
“I believe Jesus has been talking to me … I need to get on the road (to be) that person who helps others,” she said.
“I see these (struggling) women everyday.”
To contribute to Aries Angels visit http://www.gofundme.com/ariesangels
