Stories

As a single parent with a newborn, Aisha* turned to Volunteers of America for support during a critical time in the face of uncertainty. VOA’s Rapid ReHousing Program found safe housing for Aisha and her child, providing temporary rental assistance, and helped her move from day-to-day survival to being able to focus on her long-term goals. With a roof over their head, Aisha returned to cosmetology school determined to pursue a career she loved, and successfully earned her licensing. Along the way, VOA connected Aisha to essential community resources, such as food, clothing, and toys for her daughter, ensuring she…

Stuck in a cycle of instability, Billy once faced homelessness without a strong support network behind him. He found both home and community within the walls of VOA’s Foundation House, where the welcoming staff helped him get back on his feet. With a permanent apartment, Billy was able to focus on improving his mental and physical well-being and reconnect with family. Hoping to turn his experiences into a source of hope for others, Billy is training to become a peer support specialist. “A lot of the struggles I went through provided me with a unique opportunity in that I’m able…

Breonna’s life came crashing down when she went from working two jobs to finding herself without a car and without a home. Facing the reality of unemployment and staying at family members’ homes, she felt like a burden to those around her. Breonna knew she had to make a drastic change and contacted Monroe County Department of Human Services, which placed her at the VOA Guest House Family Shelter. VOA provided Breonna and her children with clothing, having arrived with only the clothes on their backs. They were given their own private bedroom, support services with on-site case management, children…