Stories of Impact

Your Support Helps Youth Like:

Kara

When Kara came to Haven House, she was 8 months pregnant and sleeping in her car. Her relationship with her parents was strained, and due to
complications from the pregnancy, she was unable to work.

Working with Haven House’s Transition in Place case manager, Kara was able to locate safe and secure housing within a month of entering the program. After the birth of her child, staff helped Kara furnish her apartment, helped her find childcare, apply for medical benefits and food assistance, and find employment. Kara graduated from high school while in the program, and staff helped her take steps to repair her relationship with her parents. Upon exiting the TIP program, Kara moved into a home locally with family members.She credits the program with providing her with the resources and skills she needs to weather life’s challenges.

15-year-old Ava was struggling with substance use, leaving the home without permission, and not attending school for more than six months. After Ava's mom reached out to Haven House for help, one of our licensed therapists met with Ava and conducted several assessments, resulting in a diagnosis of depression. The therapist worked with Ava and her caregiver to address Ava's mental health needs and problem behaviors. The therapist also equipped Ava's mom with tools and resources to help move Ava and the family toward positive change.

After a few months of services, Ava successfully returned to school, decreased her substance use, and the family improved their overall relationship and communication. Haven House also helped the caregiver establish a strong connection with the school. We look forward to seeing all that Ava will accomplish in the future!

Brothers Edward (12) and Ricky (14) stayed at Haven House’s Wrenn House youth crisis shelter for nearly two weeks. Their mother was fleeing an unsafe relationship and seeking stable housing.

While at Wrenn House, the boys received counseling from Wrenn’s Clinical Coordinator to increase
resiliency and address their emotions. The boys reunited with their mother after she was able to secure housing for all of them with a family member.


Dylan

Dylan has faced many challenges in his 15 years. Eventually he got involved with the juvenile justice system and was referred to Haven House's Community Alternatives Program (CAP).

During his time in the program, Dylan's Youth Care Specialist said that Dylan "stepped out of his comfort zone" by expressing his creativity and seeking employment. He learned how to advocate for himself. Dylan interviewed with several employers and found a job he likes. Additionally, Dylan is now attending a local community teens group where he has joined various music and art programs.

Dylan has set specific education and career goals, and we are honored to be part of his journey to success.


 

"I wanna tell you a little bit about my story. I have a 3-year-old son and I have been homeless for about a year. The case worker I had before was NOT
HELPFUL. So I continued to be homeless and said forget it. I had other services that really were not helpful till my friend told me about Emmy at Haven House. I was hesitant because I was scared to have somebody else to help me, but I got Emmy’s number and told her my main goal was to get shelter for my son. I prayed long nights and days that I get something and since working with Emmy she has helped me get a place for me and my son and things that I need. If somebody asked me I would tell them ask for Emmy, and I would refer them to Haven House because they were helpful along the way. They helped me in so many ways and are still helpful.” - DD, young person served by Street Outreach Program.

Erik

Erik enrolled in Haven House’s after-school Second Round boxing and fitness program earlier this year. When he first entered the program, he was unable to express his emotions or feelings in a positive way and ultimately would find himself in physical altercations. Since joining Second Round, Erik has made the honor roll twice, strengthened his communication skills, and improved his leadership skills inside and outside of the gym. He encourages others at school to join Second Round and has recently been recognized for being a leader in the gym.