I spent the first 27 years of my life in Newport, a place I knew intimately, where I raised my family and built my life. But everything changed when the world was turned upside down by COVID-19. It was a dark time, and I lost my home, just as I was also beginning to care for my granddaughter. The reality hit hard. I found myself and my granddaughter living in our car, with nowhere to go.
I reached out to Brighton Center. I knew of their services, having heard about them over the years. After that call I was connected to the Rapid Rehousing program. Initially, I found a place in Dayton. I felt hopeful, until the landlord suddenly informed me that I needed to find a new place. Just like that, I was back to square one, scrambling for shelter once again. I had my granddaughter with me, and all I wanted was stability for her.
Navigating the housing landscape was overwhelming. I faced many obstacles and most places wouldn’t accept my housing voucher. I felt lost and confused, unsure of how to look for housing with a fixed income. I had always worked hard in my life and never thought I’d be in such a situation. The reality of the housing crisis became evident. There simply weren’t enough homes for people like us. I spent five long months in a shelter, witnessing how many others were also struggling. It was tough, especially on my granddaughter. At first, she found it exciting, making friends and playing with other kids. But as those friends left for their own homes, her excitement faded into frustration.
With the help of Brighton Center, I was able to get my paperwork in order again, even though it felt like starting from scratch each time I moved. My contact at Brighton Center became a vital support for me during this tumultuous journey. Having someone to talk to made a significant difference when I felt like I was falling apart. Eventually, we moved to Maysville, Kentucky, but that came with its own challenges. The distance disrupted my granddaughter’s schooling, and she struggled to catch up. I worried about her stability, about her ability to make friends and feel secure in a home.
Despite everything, there were glimmers of hope. I realized I had to keep pushing forward, not just for myself but for my granddaughter. I want her to feel she has a home, to belong, and to succeed in school. The support from Brighton Center has been invaluable. They’ve helped with food, utilities, and other necessities. I appreciate every bit of help, knowing that without it, we would have been lost.
Looking ahead, I dream of stability. I hope to get our lives on track, despite rising costs and my fixed income as a retiree. I know I need to keep working with Brighton Center, not just for immediate needs but to explore opportunities for homeownership through their Financial Wellness programs. I’d love nothing more than to have a place we can truly call our own. To anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation, I would say: don’t give up. Reach out for help. The journey is tough, but support is out there, and it’s crucial to keep trying. I hope that my story can inspire others to persevere and find the help they need to create a brighter future.
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