Courtney and Marshell are devoted parents of two precious children, Lily, a two-year-old girl, and Chris, a resilient young man who recently celebrated his 18th birthday.
Their journey into homelessness was far from a matter of choice but rather a consequence of circumstances beyond their control. Courtney's daughter, Lily was diagnosed with autism, and son, Chris, faced behavioral challenges. Navigating a new diagnosis on top of mounting bills and the impending threat of homelessness became too much to handle. The family needed a stable home where they felt safe and far away from the judgmental stares they often encountered within their community.
It was at this critical juncture that Dawning Family Services came into their lives; initially through our Coordinated Entry Program and later, through Emergency Shelter.
As they began this new journey, their path was tested with difficulties. Courtney and Marshell had to navigate the complexities of housing searches while also caring for their children's unique needs. The burden was heavy, but their determination never wavered.
Dawning Family Services was the stable support in their lives as they maintained their jobs while in the shelter, built up their savings, and prepared for the day when they could secure their own home. They were offered resources to meet their children's specific needs, showing them that they were not alone in their journey.
Through hard work from both the family and Dawning Family Services, we are proud to state that Courtney and Marshell secured an apartment, complete with housing subsidies to ensure a safe and permanent home for their family.
Additionally, with the support of ASO Children's Board, they were provided a car seat to ensure Lily's safety during their commute, as well as financial assistance to cover fuel costs for their housing search.
Courtney, Marshell, Chris, and Lily's story is a testament to the incredible resilience of the human spirit and the impact that support and compassion can have on those facing adversity. Their success, against all odds, is a shining example of what is possible when a community comes together to lift one another up.
As we share this story, we ask for your support. With your generous donations, we can continue to be a beacon of hope for families like Courtney and Marshell's, providing shelter, resources, and assistance to those who need it most. Together, we can help families overcome homelessness, celebrate successes, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Donate today: www.dawningfamilyservices.org/donate
Written by Tori Calandro