Maria* came to My Sister’s Place last year seeking shelter, and facing significant challenges of unemployment, financial abuse, and language barriers. After learning about MSP at one of our community events, she called the hotline and worked with our advocates to get her and her children to safety.

At MSP, she found a community that supported her throughout her journey to independence. Over the course of her stay at both MSP’s emergency shelter and RISE transitional housing program, she completed an English as a second language program with funding from our Fresh Start Fund; gained employment and financial security; and is now working with a home-buying program to secure her future for herself and her children. She never dreamed she could one day own a home of her own.

-Maria*, MSP client & survivor

*Names and identifying details changed to protect client confidentiality .

“I remember that first day I called and spoke to MSP’s Residential Counselor. She was my first sight of light – but then it took too long for me to be placed. I was about to give up and continue living in my unhappy and abusive marriage, but then my MSP Case Manger called. My second sign of light. I almost lost hope, and MSP restored and brought my hope back. The love and support has permanently lit the light which I was seeing from a distance.

I am in the process of recovery through therapy and different groups we go to here at the shelter. I will be sad to move on, and move once I find our own place. But at the same time will be rejoicing because that is what this program is for. To help women and children overcome obstacles from their past. You guys are the tunnel of light toward a better, brighter future for us.”

-Rose*, MSP client & survivor

*Names and identifying details changed to protect client confidentiality .