A Place to Call Home: Melissa’s Story
When Melissa began falling behind on rent, she found herself facing an incredibly difficult situation. Financial challenges, combined with an upcoming court date, left her at risk of eviction and worried about what would happen to her and her daughter if they lost their home. Like so many families in our community, Melissa was doing everything she could to stay afloat, but she needed support before a temporary hardship became a housing crisis.
Through Piedmont Housing Alliance’s Housing Stability program, Melissa connected with Housing Stability Case Manager Elizabeth, who helped her navigate resources, coordinate assistance, and remain housed. For Melissa, the support she received went far beyond financial help. “Elizabeth is appreciated very much. She is very proactive in helping me. I know she has a lot of clients, but she still checked in on me and followed up on everything. She is appreciated in every way.” Melissa says that knowing someone was looking out for her made a tremendous difference during a stressful and uncertain time.
Housing Stability services provided both practical assistance and emotional support when Melissa needed it most. “Even if she can’t help financially, Elizabeth is there for me as a listening ear. She is always getting back to me and making sure I’m good. It means the world.” Because of that support, Melissa and her daughter were able to remain in their home and avoid the disruption and trauma of eviction. “Getting assistance means I don’t have to go through finding somewhere else to go, and that my daughter and I have somewhere to lay our head. It feels so good to have programs like this that can help.”
Melissa’s story highlights why Piedmont Housing Alliance’s Build the Future campaign is so important. As housing costs continue to rise and more families face the threat of displacement, housing stabilization and eviction prevention services help ensure that temporary setbacks do not become life-changing crises. Reflecting on her experience, Melissa shared, “I feel blessed to have programs that I can turn to for support. It’s good to have someone that has your back when you need it. I don’t take it for granted. I feel blessed to be able to have the help.” Through Build the Future, supporters help make stories like Melissa’s possible, ensuring more families have the resources, stability, and support they need to remain safely housed and build a brighter future.
To learn more about Build the Future and to join us in this work, visit: https://piedmonthousingalliance.org/build-the-future/