* “Stories of HOPE” feature real clients and their stories, however, we use a stand-in name and image to protect their privacy *
“Glenda” first came to HOPE Helps five years ago when she was fleeing domestic violence. She wanted to start over and needed deposit assistance to provide a home for herself and 3 children. HOPE was able to assist her then and developed a relationship of support. Glenda kept in touch with us off and on over the years. Unfortunately, she developed some health issues and became unable to pay for a home or care for her children. They were placed with relatives while she focused on recovery, still calling and updating us at HOPE even from the hospital. Eventually, Glenda recovered and her health is stable now. She has been working and staying with some family friends but due to some legal issues within the apartment complex was forced to leave and became homeless.
Between the cost of paying her portion of the housing and sending money to her children, she did not have the savings for the deposit needed to get her own home and have her children join her. Due to her poor rental history she was also struggling to get approved for housing anywhere. HOPE was able to advocate for Glenda by using a community resource called Housing Connector. One complex was familiar with her story and stated that with HOPE’s endorsement, they would push her through to get housing approval despite her not meeting the requirements. We are happy to report that Glenda is now housed and has a place for her children to visit while she works on transitioning them back to living with her. HOPE’s reputation in the community as being a reliable support for both clients and housing partners allowed us to get her housing when other avenues had failed. At HOPE we understand that housing is so much more than just a roof over someone’s head; it’s a safe space, a source of pride, and reunites families or keeps them housed together.
