For Donna —whose name has been changed to protect her privacy— the journey to finding peace began with the simple desire for space—a quiet place to rest, think, and recharge. Growing up, her path included a deeply difficult chapter between 2016 and 2018, when she lived in Pennsylvania with her father and stepmother. It was an abusive relationship and a truly horrible experience, further compounded by ongoing social media stalking and harassment. Seeking stability and a fresh start, she eventually returned to New York, but found herself in a deeply overcrowded Brooklyn apartment shared with her mother, sister, stepfather, and step-siblings, where privacy was impossible. Sharing a room with her mother and sister while working demanding shifts as a Passenger Service Agent at JFK Airport began taking an even heavier toll on her physical and mental health. The exhaustion of late-night shifts combined with the constant noise at home left her unable to sleep or focus.
Realizing she needed a change, Donna made the difficult decision to leave. Despite hesitation from family members who feared the worst about shelter life, Donna trusted her instincts and entered the city shelter system. She spent 30 days in an intake facility before transitioning to a permanent shelter, where she lived for nearly two years. By keeping to herself, staying focused, and taking advantage of the resources provided—including on-site laundry, health personnel, and supportive staff—she navigated the system safely and constructively.
During her time at the shelter, Donna was introduced to her social worker, who suggested supportive housing after learning that Donna was coping with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Up until that point, Donna didn’t realize supportive housing catered to individuals managing mental health conditions. Encouraged by her social worker, she completed the necessary psychiatric evaluations and social assessments. Soon after, she received life-changing news: an apartment was ready for her at 551 Warren Street, a Fifth Avenue Committee supportive housing building. Reflecting on the transition, Donna shared:
“Living here has been a very, very positive experience for me. It’s peaceful here. Everybody here is nice. The staff is friendly. I met a few of my neighbors and they’re nice as well and seem very helpful.”
Moving into her new studio apartment was an emotional milestone. Walking into the clean, brand-new space complete with kitchen, bathroom, and living supplies provided by the program, Donna finally found the sanctuary she had been searching for. Reflecting on walking into her apartment and finding the welcome supplies waiting for her, Donna recalled:
“I had bathroom supplies, kitchen supplies, I had living room supplies, bedroom supplies, I was like, that is so nice… they got me some stuff already. I was so excited.”
Having her own peaceful space has unlocked new opportunities. Donna recently completed an Information Technology training program and is preparing to launch a new career path with an IT internship this October. Beyond her professional goals, having a home of her own allows her the time and tranquility to pursue her creative passions—drawing, painting, and crafting—while setting long-term goals to rebuild her credit, pay down student loans, and eventually transition into a one-bedroom apartment.
Donna’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of stepping out in faith, asking for help, and utilizing community resources to build a brighter, independent future.
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