Neville Recalls Rootless Childhood

LAFAYETTE, La. (RnB mania) - R&B singer Charmaine Neville, who lived in foster homes until she was 16, recalls her youth as a time of constantly "going from pillar to post."

Neville spoke Friday at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Acadiana Shelter for Girls, a group home for girls between 12 and 17. It should be finished early next year.
Neville said her rootless childhood was "horrible" and "ugly," and encouraged young people to help others through their struggles. "I think about how blessed I was to survive," she said. "So many kids didn't. I want to do anything I can to help and make sure it will be a great future for others."

Neville is the daughter of saxophone player Charles Neville and niece of singer Aaron Neville. In the past, she has spoken about poverty breaking up her family and not meeting her father until she was 5