Success Stories

Sheila’s Journey

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.

Amy’s Journey

Sixteen years ago, I discovered Brighton Center through a simple paper ad pinned to a bulletin board at the library. Technology wasn’t like it is today; you couldn’t just hop online to find programs and resources. That ad introduced me to Every Child Succeeds (ECS), which I joined while pregnant with my first child. I loved the program, it guided me through the changes my body and baby were experiencing each month, and gave me confidence as a first-time parent. 

Jayden’s Journey

My name is Jayden, and I’m 18 years old. I recently transitioned from Homeward Bound Shelter into Independent Living, but my journey here has been anything but straightforward. I first came to Homeward Bound when I was just 11. At that time, I was living with my great-grandparents in a difficult environment that wasn’t providing for my basic needs. I reached out to a Counselor, and soon after, community services intervened. I spent three months at Homeward Bound, and while it was a challenging time, it was also a safe space where I felt supported. 

Melik’s Journey

In February 2023, I found myself at a crossroads. After separating from the mother of my four children, I was experiencing homelessness and trying to navigate life without a support system while my kids relied on me. I was staying in a hotel with my kids, and eventually, we ended up in a shelter. It was at that shelter I met a Rapid Rehousing caseworker from Brighton Center who played a pivotal role in helping me rebuild my life. I was introduced to Center for Employment Training (CET). The program is aimed at equipping individuals with skills for long-term careers. It felt daunting, but I recognized it was my only chance to ensure my children wouldn’t remain in the shelter. 

Kathy’s Journey

Three and a half years ago, I was a shadow of the person I am today - lost, struggling with a substance use disorder, and feeling utterly alone. My life had spiraled out of control, and my children barely recognized me. I didn’t love myself, and I didn’t care for anyone else either. I was caught in a cycle of addiction, and even when I looked in the mirror, I couldn’t muster any love for the reflection staring back at me. 

Paige’s Journey

From the moment I joined Youth Leadership Development (YLD) in fifth grade, it felt like stepping into a new world. At first, it was just something my friends talked me into, promising fun. Little did I know it would become a place where I found friends and a second family. 

Georgina’s Journey

Every new parent can use a little extra help, and thanks to a friend who recommended the Every Child Succeeds (ECS) program, I found an incredible support system! My daughter and I started it when she was only one month old. The tools and knowledge that my Home Visitor gave me were key to making my motherhood journey the best experience. Because of ECS, my daughter met all of her growth and psychosocial development objectives. Learning new things about my daughter’s behavior at each stage of her growth has helped me be more aware of her needs as a mother. 

Demetria’s Journey

I learned about Center for Employment Training (CET) in 2014 when I was in high school from my dad. He graduated from the program and tried to convince me then to also go to CET, but I ended up going to a university for nursing, where I discovered it just wasn’t for me. It was also too expensive. 

Rita’s Journey

Brighton Recovery Center (BRC) taught me to love myself again. They showed me that I am worth so much more than I thought I was. On June 15th, 2018, I entered BRC after I was ordered to be there by the Department of Corrections. Initially, I did not want to be there. It was only after hearing that a close friend had passed from an overdose that I felt like I needed to be there. I had to change for myself. From that day forward, I started working on the steps to fight addiction. 

Terrie’s Journey

My life now is beautiful beyond measure. Brighton Center showed me the path there. If it wasn't for Brighton Center, there is no doubt in my mind I would not be alive today.

Addiction ruined my life. I was born into a long line of substance abuse. My mother left when I was two due to addiction, and my father was never around because he was an alcoholic. My grandmother raised me, and we had limited resources.