Salvation Army Marshall House Helps Woman Get Back on Her Feet
For several months Amanda was living doubled up, staying with different family and friends. She had previously been evicted and believed this would prevent her from obtaining her own apartment. Ultimately, Amanda was asked to leave a friend’s home who had subsidized housing and was afraid Amanda was putting her housing at risk.
Literally homeless, Amanda arrived at The Salvation Army Marshall House in November 2021 with her two daughters, 1 and 3 years of age. Amanda is a mother of five children – three of whom are over the age of 18 years and living independently. At the time of her arrival, Amanda reported no income, an eviction from 2007, and her current involvement with DCF and Wheeler Clinic. She was working with DCF and Wheeler Clinic for behavioral health and parenting support, as her youngest child has high needs which creates stress in the family.
During her stay at Marshall House, Amanda has enrolled herself in GED classes, having been unable to complete her schooling years ago. The Marshall House Case Manager assisted Amanda in applying for State assistance, to ensure she could care for her children while taking classes. Amanda successfully completed her GED testing in January; she plans to continue her education at Capital Community College.
Throughout her stay, Amanda has been very engaged in her housing plan, regularly working with her case manager. She frequently reports on her progress when she meets specific goals and then moves on to address her next barrier to stable housing.
The Salvation Army has assisted Amanda in identifying an apartment in New Britain, as well as connecting her to support services for 12-18 months through Rapid Rehousing. Amanda has received assistance completing the apartment application, and with the security deposit, enabling her to transition from the shelter to her own place. Amanda’s case manager has also connected her to local services to assist her with furniture and household items.
During her stay at The Salvation Army Marshall House, Amanda has shown resilience and strength. She has been very motivated to move from the shelter and give her daughters a better lifestyle. She is scheduled to move into her new apartment in mid-February.
Amanda is truly grateful for the support she has received and the opportunity she has to move into stable housing and establish a home for herself and her girls.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy