“If someone is really determined to make a change, Community of Hope is the place for them!”
– Belle M., Hope Apartments Resident
We are so grateful to Belle M. who wants to share her story with you. Belle, an amazing mom to her seven-year-old son Jay, was laid off from her job in the DC government due to staff reductions. Though the loss of her job was devastating, Belle had seen hardship before. Struggling with drug addiction and trying to keep a roof over their heads, Belle and Jay have moved sixteen times. With each move, Jay has had to adapt to new surroundings, new schools, and new friends. Their last move to Community of Hope’s Hope Apartments, however, changed everything.
When Belle found out that she was accepted into Hope Apartments, she told her case manager, “I’d be dead within a week if not for you!” Belle describes Hope Apartments as loving and stabilizing. Having built a support system around her, Belle recently celebrated four months of sobriety.
Belle also goes to Community of Hope’s Marie Reed Health Center for her medical care. “It’s the best clinic ever! If you have a 9 AM appointment, you are seen right at 9 AM.” She takes full advantage of the services the health center has to offer. She meets regularly with a therapist and has joined a trauma recovery group.
Empowered by the support at Hope Apartments, the future looks bright for Belle and Jay. With her solid work history and diligent employment search, Belle is optimistic about landing a job. She even hopes to move into her own place soon! She wants to stay in the neighborhood, though, so Jay can stay in a school they both like.
While Belle is proud of all that she has accomplished, she’s aware of the great need for programs like Hope Apartments. She says, “There are a lot more “me’s” out there, and I want to make room for the ones who come after me.”
