Shelly found resources and peace of mind

Shelly has been living on her own since she was 16 years old.  For 30 years – most of her adult life – she worked as a nursing assistant. However, after developing chronic back pain, she was no longer able to work. Selling her jewelry paid her rent for the year after she lost her job, and she was able to live with her daughter and other family members for a while after that. But with no income and no way to pay rent, Shelly soon found herself heading to the Salvation Army women’s shelter.

She could spend nights at the shelter, but she could only go there at 6 pm and needed to leave by 10 am. When she asked the YWCA where she could go during the day, they referred her to Mary’s Place. Here Shelly found a safe environment to spend her days.

At Mary’s Place, Shelly can use a phone and a fax machine. She participates in support groups, gets help finding clothing, and can see a nurse and get vitamins.  Shelly’s goal is to get social security so she can get into housing. She meets weekly with an advocate who helps her with the application process.

“There is no place like Mary’s Place,” Shelly says. “Thanks to the very supportive people here, I feel comfortable and safe.”

Thank you for the peace you provide to Shelly.