Sabashtian and Savannah’s story is one of perseverance, love, and resilience in the

face of adversity. It starts in different places but ultimately converges in a shared vision for a better future.

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Savannah was raised in Sedro-Wooley. As a teenager, her family moved to Grays Harbor, Washington. It wasn’t an easy transition, but Savannah learned to adapt to struggles

associated with poverty and a broken home.  In her early years, she lived in a house her

dad rented but never stayed at because he was with his girlfriend and Savannah's mom had moved to England.

COMING TOGETHER

 

Sabashtian, on the other hand, had a much more tumultuous upbringing.  His childhood was marked by constant movement—first between Florida and Yakima, Washington with his birth parents, and then into the foster care system. In 2019, fate brought Sabashtian and Savannah together. Both had been through their fair share of heartache, but when they met, they found

solace in each other’s presence. Their connection was immediate, and though their relationship was tested by the challenges they each carried, they decided to build a future together. By 2021, they made a bold move—quitting their jobs and relocating to Missouri, hoping to reconnect with Sabashtian’s family and find a fresh start.

 

The promise of a lower cost of living in Missouri quickly became a double-edged sword. While expenses were less, wages were even lower. The couple found themselves struggling to make ends meet. They tried to make it work, even facing the heartbreak of a truck breaking down, which put their plans further on hold. They moved in with family to save money for repairs, but the financial strain continued to mount.  By 2023, things had not gotten any easier. The couple made their way back to Sedro-Wooley, seeking comfort with Savannah’s grandparents. Despite having full-time jobs, they faced an ongoing battle to find affordable housing. Time and again, they encountered roadblocks, and the pressures of life began to weigh them down. At one point, they spent nearly $4,000 staying in a motel, trying to hold on until things could get better.

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DECIDING TO TRUST

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It wasn’t until 2025 that things began to truly change. After much hesitation, Savannah convinced Sabashtian to reach out to the Anacortes Family Center (AFC). They were unsure at first—after all, it was a big step to put their trust in strangers, especially after so many years of struggle. But with no other options left, they made the call. “I know it is scary to put your faith in people you don’t know, but you have to trust their process,” Savannah says, reflecting on that pivotal moment.

 

AFC’s support came just when they needed it the most. The program provided them with a safe place to stay, allowing them the time and space to heal. They learned essential life skills—communication strategies, budgeting, and effective parenting techniques that would prove invaluable. And while it wasn’t always easy, Savannah and Sabashtian began to see a glimmer of hope for the future.  “It’s hard to admit you need help,” Sabashtian shares, “but your self-pride is not worth your family suffering.” That realization was a turning point for him. The couple began to take charge of their future, saving money, setting a plan for stable housing, and rebuilding the strength of their relationship.

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In April 2025, they officially made the commitment to AFC’s program.  Slowly, but surely they started getting back on track. Their journey wasn’t without its challenges, but with each passing day, they began to understand that change didn’t happen overnight. It took trust, hard work, and a willingness to ask for help.

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LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

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Today, they are on their way to a brighter tomorrow. Savannah and Sabashtian have learned that no matter how dark things might seem, there’s always a way forward when you trust the right people. Their blended family has a future now—a future that was built with courage, faith, and the knowledge that together, they can overcome anything.

 

For anyone in a similar situation, Savannah’s message is clear: “Trust the process. Even when it feels like you’re taking a risk, that risk might just be the step you need to change everything.”  Sabashtian adds, “Don’t let pride stand in the way of your family’s

happiness. There’s no shame in asking for help. It’s the first step toward a better life.”

 

Together, they’ve found the strength to keep moving forward, hand in hand. Their story is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and community. There’s always a way out of the dark--the reset they’ve been waiting for is here. And this time, they’re ready.