In 2023, I left a toxic, abusive and controlling relationship. Even though it was the best decision I could have made for my three kids and myself, it was also hard. I had no money saved since my former partner didn’t allow me to work or have a car. With no place to go, I packed up some clothes and said goodbye to my emotional support animal and left. I started staying with a friend and helping her with her husband, who has Alzheimer’s disease. It was difficult, but a least it was a roof over our heads and an income while I saved money to get back on my feet. Until tragedy struck and my friend unexpectedly passed away, so my friend’s husband went to live with his daughter, and I had seven days to pack up and leave. So there I was again, homeless with three children under the age of nine, not much money saved and no place to go.

My son went to school and told someone that we were homeless—I got a phone call saying that NUMAS Haus would have an opening soon, so I was accepted into the program and would be moving in the next Monday. I was scared and relieved at the same time. NUMAS Haus will always hold a special place in my heart. They are so full of love and support, and did everything possible to make sure that we would succeed. They helped me attain full-time employment, which means stability for my kids. They celebrated birthdays and holidays with us, and made sure that I had the knowledge and resources to maintain my own place. After three months of living at NUMAS Haus, I moved over to the transitional house. Not only do my kids and I have a place of our own, but I was able to reclaim my emotional support cat. The folks at NUMAS Haus made sure that we would be reunited, and it feels amazing.

Now I get to build a rental history and a better life for my children and myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help and guidance that NUMAS provided. They made sure that when we moved in we would have everything we needed for our house: furniture, kitchenware, clothing, the whole works. Not only did NUMAS Haus provide the necessities working with donors and community agencies, they provided love, support, encouragement, and most importantly, hope for my children’s and my future. Thank you, NUMAS Haus, for everything you have done to help me become the strong woman I am today.