Stories from Our Family Shelter

Nancy was a pregnant mother of three when she came to the Middlesex Family Shelter after losing her housing. Nancy had a good employment history but had to limit her work hours due to a medically complex pregnancy. Her husband, Dan, struggled with criminal justice issues but later joined her at the shelter and was a supportive partner and father to Nancy and their children. Dan began working and Nancy gave birth to a healthy baby while residing at the shelter. Shortly after the birth of their newborn, Nancy began working more hours. With case management support from Columbus House staff and some financial assistance, the family was successfully able to move to safe and affordable housing.

Emanuel and his teenage daughter had just lost their housing when they came to the Middlesex Family Shelter. Emanuel had many physical limitations and needed surgery. His daughter, Sophia, was able to stay in her original school which offered her some continuity during this challenging time. Though Emanuel had many physical struggles, he was extremely independent and very motivated to secure housing. He had surgery while at the shelter and, shortly after recovering, secured part-time employment. The family was able to move to subsidized housing for persons living with disabilities in their home town.

David and his teenage son lost their housing after David lost his job. Within weeks of entering the Middlesex Family Shelter, David secured a new job and was able to save enough money for a security deposit and the first month’s rent. The family was able to rent a home and moved in before Christmas.