For Shannelle, being a single mother of three came with its share of challenges. She worked hard to provide for her children, but when she left an abusive relationship, everything changed. The financial burden fell entirely on her shoulders.
“When I decided to walk away completely from him, he stopped contributing financially. So everything fell on me with my three children. That impacted my finances, my housing stability, and my mental health. I just wasn’t sure if we were going to be okay without his help.”
The weight of carrying it all alone was overwhelming. Shannelle knew she needed support but was unsure where to turn. She felt trapped. When she found Community of Hope, it was more than just a program. It was a chance to rebuild and find the hope she had been searching for.
Shannelle first connected with Community of Hope through Virginia Williams Family Resource Center.
“I was really depressed when I went in. I wasn’t myself at all. But I had a really good person who helped me, and that gave me hope.”
Virginia Williams staff referred her to Community of Hope’s Rapid Re-Housing Program, offering her a lifeline—the chance to secure a stable home. She was unfamiliar with how the program worked but was relieved to learn it would help her transition into permanent housing.
Within three months and with the support of Community of Hope, Shannelle moved into a safe and comfortable home where she could begin rebuilding her life.
Through Rapid Re-Housing, Shannelle was connected with dedicated case managers who guided her every step of the way. She worked with multiple caseworkers, each playing a role in her journey, but Jasmine stood out.
“Jasmine has been super sweet. I like her energy. She respects boundaries but also makes sure I have what I need. If I text or email her, she responds right away. And if I don’t respond, she checks in—just to ask, ‘Hey Shannelle, you good?’ Sometimes, I wasn’t good. And I appreciated that she cared.”
Jasmine also helped Shannelle explore additional resources, including mental health support for both her and her youngest son.
“It’s never a bad thing to get the mental health support you need—especially after going through so many traumatic things. Community of Hope made sure I had options, and I love that they also offered services for my son.”
With the stability of housing and a strong support system, Shannelle was finally able to focus on her future.
“The greatest accomplishment was being able to save money and restore my credit. I was able to set up different programs to rebuild my credit and secure housing. Now, I’m exiting the program and moving into a place I actually want to be. I found a condo—that was one of my goals!”
Looking back, Shannelle knows the journey wasn’t easy. But she wants others in similar situations to know that hope is always within reach.
For Shannelle, hope isn’t just about finding a home—it’s about creating a better future. She dreams of homeownership, continuing her career in social work, and ensuring her sons have the stability and opportunities they deserve.
“Hope means that sometimes you have to close a chapter, start a new one, or even edit the one you’re in. It’s about adjusting your crown, taking the pen, and rewriting your story. Because sometimes, what feels like the end is just a new beginning.”
Thanks to Community of Hope’s Rapid Re-Housing Program, Shannelle didn’t just find a place to live—she found the foundation for a brand-new future. And now, she’s ready to step forward with confidence, stability, and hope.
