In Her Own Words: Jane
After a series of struggles, Jane became homeless and went to live in a local shelter. While she was without a home, Jane found a safe place for her daughter to stay and was very motivated to get back on her feet so that they could be reunited. Last fall, while in shelter, Jane was connected with our Community First program, and she and her daughter were able to quickly move into a home of their own! Jane is now employed, has found stable childcare, and is working toward getting her driver’s license. Jane shared her story of hope and perseverance with our team, and we are cheering her on as she meets her goals!
Miriam’s House (MH): Describe what led you to experience homelessness?
Jane: My dad passed away in 2018. At this time, I was struggling with addiction and ended up in jail. I was able to find a safe place for my daughter to stay while I was in jail. When I got out, I had nowhere to go but I knew I needed to be by my daughter.
MH: What are the most important factors that led you to get out of homelessness?
Jane: My daughter was my motivation.
MH: What does housing mean to you? Why is that important in your life?
Jane: I have been homeless—never experienced anything like it and will work as hard as I can to make sure it never happens again. I will do everything to keep my daughter safe.
MH: What would you want people to know about the homeless experience?
Jane: It can happen to anybody. If you’ve never been through it, you don’t know how to navigate it without help. I had to go where the help was.
MH: What has your experience working with Miriam’s House been like?
Jane: Excellent. You all have helped me get into a place and are helping with rent until I can do it on my own. I couldn’t have done it without your financial support and knowing that you care and believe in me. I know that I can come to you if I am scared because I don’t know what to do. I know I can ask for your help.
MH: Looking ahead, what are you most excited for the next chapter?
Jane: Watching my daughter grow up. Showing my daughter that nothing is impossible and if I can get through it, so can she.
MH: Anything else you want to share?
Jane: The love for your child is real, you will do anything you can to take care of and protect your child. It is important to remember—where there is a will, there is a way. Don’t give up. I still struggle at times but will not give up because I know I can do it.
“I will do anything to take care of and protect my child. I still struggle at times, but I will not give up because I know I can do it.”
Each day our team is working to end homelessness for individuals like Jane and her daughter; ensuring everyone in this community has a safe place to call home and the resources they need to rebuild their lives.