“It’s not easy to be in a good mood when you’re homeless.”
Updated: 5/15/24
Laura is a survivor. After attempting to leave an abusive relationship several times, she finally left for good when her husband began to abuse her teenage son. Laura and her son moved to Asheville to be with her sister, but when she arrived, Laura discovered that her sister had passed away. She stayed in shelters a few months before learning about Homeward Bound, where she was directed to AHOPE and got on the waiting list for housing.
While waiting for housing, Laura joined the Room in the Inn program, where she moved from church to church. This transition was difficult for her, and she became depressed, stating “it’s not easy to be in a good mood when you’re homeless.” In 2010, Laura entered Homeward Bound’s Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) scattered site program.
The program found housing for Laura and provided her with case management. As she began to stabilize in housing, she started to feel like herself again. Laura shares how important the emotional support she received from her case manager Will Hurley and other Homeward Bound staff has been for her. Her affirmations make an impact on all those around her. “Laura was always so positive. I would leave and feel better, because she had such a positive outlook”, says Will.
After living somewhere 12 years, Laura and Will began discussing her goal of finding a new comfortable place in preparation for program graduation. Will recalls “Laura always was really motivated and goal driven. She always wanted to give back and help others. She had a community of women who would meet weekly and encourage and support each other. She also had a lot of people that she would visit with and support. She was really well known in the community”.
After a year of searching, Laura finally found a new home and moved into a little cottage that she loves. “Being in a permanent home makes me feel safe and happy,” says Laura. “Having a roof over my head and not sharing a room gives me a sense of freedom.”
Laura graduated from Homeward Bound’s PSH program in September 2022. In visiting with her nearly two years later this Spring, she is proud to show us her home with her flowers in full bloom. Spending most of her time doing inspirational reading, Laura feels it’s important to remain grateful. She looks forward to what each new season will bring.