"The Sergeant's Daughter" (She Writes Press) is a coming of age memoir of courage, bravery, and perseverance. In the book, local author Teressa Shelton boldly recounts her life growing up with her two sisters, a verbally and physically abusive father, and her mom who struggled to run interference in the face of punishment Teressa, and her sisters experienced growing up. 

Teressa endured her extreme childhood with grace and strength. She found comfort in music and books. She found consolation in friends, kind neighbors, the school secretary, her caring grandfather, and many others whose paths crossed Teressa’s journey. She found courage to share her story, giving herself permission to release the grief, guilt, and shame of her childhood.

“A Sergeant’s Daughter” (She Writes Press) is now available for purchase at Barnes & Nobles and Amazon. All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to support Central Illinois Foodbank and Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County. 

When asked why Teressa chose to donate the proceeds to the Foodbank and Habitat, she answered, “In my life there were total strangers who popped into my world and offered me a glimpse into a kinder place. Effectively, they gave me a hand up. That's why it was important for me to give back through my story.”

Colleen Stone, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Central Illinois said “Teressa is an amazing woman. She gives all of herself when she dedicates to a cause. Habitat for Humanity is honored to have her on our board of directors. Teressa also serves on the fundraising committee and as a family nurturer. As a family nurturer she guides and supports families through our home ownership program. After reading her book, I came to understand why helping our families better themselves is so important to her. I am also honored to call Teressa my friend.” 

“Food and shelter are such basic needs and yet we can be hesitant or fearful to let people know when we need help. Teressa is a woman of great strength and perseverance. In sharing her story, we hope others know that there is no guilt or shame in seeking out assistance. We are all part of a larger community that is supporting each other and the generosity that is generated by the sales of this book will continue to provide much needed resources necessary to be there for our neighbors when they need it most,” said Pam Molitoris, Executive Director for Central Illinois Foodbank.

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About Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County

Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County is honored to receive the proceeds from the sale of the book:  The Sergeant’s Daughter, written by board member Teressa Shelton.

This memoir is a testament to Teressa’s philanthropy: giving her time, talent, and treasure to help those need “just a hand up” to make a better life for themselves and their family.

For more information about the book, the Sergeant’s Daughter or to learn more about opportunities to help Habitat build, visit http://www.habitatsangamon.com or call 217.523.2710. Habitat for Humanity is currently recruiting volunteers for Habitat projects in Sangamon County.

About Central Illinois Foodbank

Central Illinois Foodbank, established in 1982, distributes 10 million pounds of food annually to over 160 food pantries, soup kitchens, residential programs and after-school programs in a 21-county region. Central Illinois Foodbank is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization. The mission of the Foodbank is to provide food, and develop awareness of and creative solutions for food insecurity.