“Having my own place… it made everything feel calm for the first time.”
Sarah*
For much of her life, Sarah experienced housing instability.
Growing up, she moved between the homes of different family members, often being asked to leave. At times, she experienced homelessness and lived on the streets. Even when she had a place to stay, there was often stress and uncertainty about how long it would last.
When Sarah joined McMan’s Hope Homes, a Calgary Homeless Foundation-funded housing program that provides safe, stable housing options and individualized supports for youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness, securing stable housing was one of her primary goals. She worked with her support team to apply for funding and search for a home of her own. Eventually, she was accepted into Hope Heights, an Indigenous-centered supportive and affordable housing community where residents can build stability, connection, and a sense of belonging.
At first, the idea of having her own apartment felt unfamiliar.
After spending so many years in unstable housing conditions, committing to a permanent home brought a mix of excitement and nervousness. But once she signed her lease and moved in, things began to change.For Sarah, setting up her apartment felt like “Christmas.”
For years, she had gone without many of the simple experiences others take for granted, including receiving birthday or holiday gifts. Being able to choose her own bedding, dishes, furniture, and household items brought her a quiet sense of joy and pride.
As she settled into her new home, Sarah began noticing changes that went far beyond having a roof over her head.
For most of her life, she had struggled with sleep. She had tried therapy and medication, but nothing seemed to help.
Now, she sleeps.
Having a safe space where she is free from the uncertainty and chaos she had experienced for so long made all the difference.
Today, Sarah continues to build a stable future for herself.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that housing is more than a place to live. For Sarah, it provided something she had been searching for, for years: peace, security, and a springboard to thrive.
*Name changed to protect privacy.
