Ernestine calls her path to a safe and warm home a Miracle. “I can’t be homeless with them.” That was the heartbreaking plea 65-year-old Ernestine made when everything fell apart.
She never expected to become the guardian of her grandson Zyere. Then, just a short time later, another grandson Jamauree, Zyere’s cousin, joined them. Ernestine stretched her income to provide love, stability, and care. The boys began to thrive.
When her car broke down, everything changed. Without transportation, Ernestine couldn’t get to work. She fell behind on rent for the first time in her life, and the family was evicted.
They began bouncing between relatives’ homes, motels, and even sleeping in their car. “I was really scared,” Ernestine told us, “I have to take care of them.”
That’s when she found The Care Service. “It was really amazing.” she said, “I don’t even know how to explain that miracle.”
Ernestine was partnered with our case manager Brittany, who began working with the family. A first step was helping them get into a safe and secure home. The Care Service provided the rent deposit, and Ernestine, Zyere, and Jamauree finally had a place to call their own again.
Brittany continued visiting weekly, guiding them step by step. Ernestine began using our food pantry to stretch her budget and ensure the boys had nutritious meals. She was connected to other local resources to help meet their needs.
Today, Zyere and Jamauree—both 9 years old—play soccer most afternoons with friends in their new neighborhood. When we visited, they were washing dishes while grandma made dinner, excitedly sharing their plans to decorate for Christmas, including hanging stockings above the fireplace—something they’ve always dreamed of.
They are grateful for the miracle that led them to the warmth, safety, and hope they now experience living in a home filled with love.