A life impacted by the support offered through the YWCA Women’s Residence
Natalie, age 35, was referred to the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin through a family friend. Identifying that she had hit a roadblock in life, needed to start focusing on making positive choices, Natalie moved into the Women’s Residence.
“I left an abusive relationship and my addictions behind me, as I walked through the doors of the YWCA. I was welcomed by a group of women, who had been through similar situations. The Women’s Residence offered more than just a roof over my head, it offered me the opportunity to heal and feel safe. I focused making positive changes and put myself first – for the first time in many years.”
Natalie lived at the YWCA for 10 months, during her stay there were ups and downs as expected. Natalie had the support of a Housing Support Worker along the way. When Natalie transitioned from the YWCA, she moved into her own apartment, held a full-time job, had reconnected with her family, and continued to be substance free.
“The YWCA gave me the opportunity to start over and choose a better life. I am forever grateful that I was given this opportunity.”