Melia became homeless after fleeing domestic violence with her two children. Having grown up in a similar environment, she was determined to break the cycle for her children’s sake. The family was staying at a shelter when Melia reached out to The Care Service for help.
Fortunately, The Care Service had an affordable housing unit available, and Melia moved into her new home a year ago. Upon moving in, The Care Service supported her family with food, furniture, and clothing. The kids also received Christmas presents through the Adopt-A-Family program.
Asking for help wasn’t easy at first. “It was hard for me to open up because I felt like everybody was judging me. It was at a point where I felt hopeless. But my Care Service case manager didn’t make me feel like that. They just really took the time to help me.”
A stable home has changed everything for Melia. “It helps me become stronger, more confident, more independent. I’ve been promoted twice now at my job. I used to doubt myself a lot, but now I’m the complete opposite. I feel safe here, I just really like the new me.”
Having a safe place to call home also meant a lot to the kids. “I know my kids are happy and safe now, and they can focus on being kids and on school,” Melia shared. “The teachers actually care. I feel like I’m not alone in this now. The kids have new friends, they seem a lot happier, which to me is a blessing because I never want to see my children sad.” When Melia took her daughter to a school event, her daughter was beyond excited to introduce her mom to all her friends.
Melia wanted more people to know that there’s no shame in asking for help, and that help is available out there. “Homelessness could happen to anyone. And don’t sit and feel bad about your situation; learn from it. I realized I’m not just the voice for myself, I was the voice for my children, and it was okay to ask for help, and there are people out there who are willing to help.”