I think that the GT writers gave Penny EVERYTHING bad that can happen. Damn!

1.She is abused by her mother

(her dad himself abandoned her too) going to foster homes, and then getting adopted.

3. She almost gets raped/molested by some guy.

4. Her mom comes back and still tries to hurt her.

5.She gets picked up by police/security twice.......................

6. She gets pickpocketed by some creep.

Of all the characters - she had the hardest life, no doubt.