Finding Stability After Uncertainty
When I met with Laura G., she was genuinely excited to share her story in hopes that it might encourage someone else facing homelessness.
Laura explained that her journey into homelessness began after leaving an abusive relationship. She had spent nearly a decade living on the edge of homelessness. As a stay-at-home mother with no income of her own, leaving meant sacrificing the only housing she had in order to escape the abuse.
For a time, Laura’s father paid for her to stay in a motel while she worked to rebuild her life. When he passed away from brain cancer, she lost not only her father but also her last source of housing support.
Laura’s path changed after NMCAA case managers attended a community lunch at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Lake City, where they met Laura and her guardian. That conversation led to a referral to New Hope Shelter, a turning point she remembers with deep gratitude.
She shared how much New Hope meant to her during one of the most difficult seasons of her life, providing safety and stability when she had nowhere else to turn.
Because of a disability, Laura was unable to maintain employment while staying in shelter. She continues to pursue Social Security Disability benefits, but in the meantime has found meaningful work, working three to four days each week with Hope Network. She credits that opportunity with helping her gain momentum toward independence.
Laura also spoke about the support she received from NMCAA throughout her journey.
“They helped structure me and never let me slip or fall behind,” she said.
She explained that managing paperwork and applications was especially difficult because of her mental health challenges. NMCAA staff regularly helped her complete applications and navigate the many steps required to access housing and other resources.
After spending nearly a year in shelter, Laura received the call she had been waiting for: an apartment had become available at West Creek Terrace. It marked the beginning of a new chapter and the stability she had worked so hard to achieve.
When asked what advice she would give someone currently experiencing homelessness, Laura didn’t hesitate.“It’s 100% your attitude and how you react to the situation.”
And when asked what kept her moving forward through the hardest days, her answer was simple:“My faith. I had faith that everything would work out in the end, and I woke up every day and thanked God.”
Laura’s story is a reminder that overcoming homelessness often requires more than determination alone. It takes safe shelter, caring relationships, practical support, and opportunities to rebuild. Through the combined efforts of community partners and Laura’s own perseverance, she was able to find a place to call home and continue building a more stable future.
Written by: Ashley Nyquist, Housing Based Case Manager
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness call our coordinated entry line today: 1-844-900-0500
