BREAKING THE CYCLE OF HOMELESSNESS, PART II

A young woman moved into her Cabrini apartment this week. She had spent the last two and a half years living in a local shelter, where the daily struggle of surviving was often overwhelming. That level of emotional brutality cannot be overcome by words. The sustained support of our staff today and in the long future will provide the humane response she deserves. Her dream is to move forward in ways that will sustain and strengthen her hope in the present and her long term future. What she can expect from Cabrini is best described by Diana, another woman living in one of our supportive housing apartments.
"I spent the last six months living outside-sleeping on the ground-before Cabrini. I had absolutely nothing. Cabrini gave me a 'welcome home' package with essentials such as dishware, pots and pans and cleaning supplies. They connected me to an organization where I was able to pick out furniture for my apartment.
What stands out in my mind now is the bed. After years of sleeping in shelters or on the ground I had my own bed. This was a huge luxury.
Cabrini has provided me with the seemingly small items, like a bus card, to the larger, a computer. It was with the computer I began to develop skills and grow in confidence. I researched furthering my education and found volunteer opportunities. I have tutored English to immigrants and taken care of babies at a battered women's shelter. I began to think I did have something valuable to offer.
Most importantly, I have re-unified with my sons. They have a mom back. I am building a life worth living thanks to the support Cabrini has given me. My life has changed dramatically.