Sasha is a single mother, only 25 years old, facing the daunting challenge of providing a stable life for her six beautiful daughters. With three of her children under temporary custody of her grandmother, Sasha was determined to reunite her family under one roof.
Her journey into homelessness began when her sister, with whom she lived, moved out to start a new chapter. Without the financial support of her sister. She was about to be forced to vacate without a place to call home, Sasha and her three youngest daughters, ages 1, 4, and 9, began their struggle to find stability.
With the threat of homelessness hovering over her family, Sasha began to search for organizations that could save them. That’s when she discovered the Dawning Family Services (DFS) Homeless Prevention Program. DFS quickly stepped in to provide the support and guidance needed to navigate the challenging path ahead. Sasha could finally exhale and take a deep breath of comfort.
While working with DFS Sasha began her job search through our Career Services program to find a higher-paying and more reliable job. Alongside her job search, finding childcare proved to be another challenge she had to face. Sasha felt that without Dawning Family Services this process would have been a nightmare of rejections.
In addition to her job and childcare search, Sasha knew the housing crisis was going to be the largest hurdle yet, as affordable options seemed unobtainable. DFS worked tirelessly to help her navigate options, consistently advocating for Sasha on housing waiting lists. It was a long & difficult process, and after almost two months of uncertainty, Sasha received the call she had been anxiously awaiting – an apartment was available for her and her daughters.
Finally, all her hard work began to shine through. Because of Sasha’s perseverance, and DFS's Career Services, she secured a job that not only provided financial stability but also surpassed her previous income. With housing and employment secured, she then focused her efforts on securing childcare for the youngest. DFS expedited the process for the Early Coalition, ensuring Sasha’s daughter received the necessary care while she was at work. Sasha expressed her gratitude, acknowledging the significant impact this assistance had on her family's well-being.
As Sasha reflected on her experience with DFS, she shared, "They became my family when I needed it the most. Without their help, I don't know where my daughters and I would be today." The unity and support she found in DFS transformed her story from one of struggle to a testament of triumph.
Sasha's journey is a testament to the transformative power of community support. Through determination, resilience, and the unwavering support of Dawning Family Services, Sasha overcame homelessness, secured employment, and embraced a brighter future for her family.
Through supporters of Dawning Family Services, we are able to continue our support and advocate for families touched by homelessness. You can be the lifeline that transforms another family's narrative of hardship into one of hope and success. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those striving to build a better tomorrow.
By Tori Calandro