Cecilia’s Story

Cecilia is 73. For over 30 years, she taught in the public school system, raised her son, and had an adoring husband. She spent her holidays surrounded by food and family.

Like so many homeless clients we see come through our doors, Cecilia became homeless when she fell on tough times and did not have a support system to lift her back up.

When my husband passed away, I went to live with my son. We made do with what we had and were comfortable. But my world was turned upside down when my son got married and his new wife wanted me to move out.

I found it impossible to find an affordable place to live on my fixed income. I had no other family to fall back on, no one who could prop me up until I got back on my feet. Before I knew it, I found myself on the doorsteps of Samaritan House Women’s Shelter wondering, “How did I get here?”

I was terrified but I had no other choice. I needed a safe space to rest my head.

My stay at Samaritan House Women’s Shelter was nothing like I thought it would be. After the whirlwind of getting settled, I was connected with Miss Denise and the Pathways to Self-Sufficiency Program. An initial assessment determined that based on my age and my minimal savings, I qualified for a room in the YWCA… but there were no openings.

I had to wait three months until a room became available and I took it immediately. I haven’t looked back since.

This year, I’ll be celebrating the holidays in my new home. Yes, it’s a single room, but it is something no one can ever take away from me as long as I keep paying the rent. Miss Denise is helping by getting me a holiday food bag filled with a turkey and all the fixings so I can make a Thanksgiving meal just like I used to . . . a nice juicy turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and cranberries.

The thought of it brings a smile to my face because I know I’m not just home for the holidays, I’m Home for Good!

Gratefully,
Cecilia