Antwanet D. wants others to know that even during difficult transitions, it’s possible to believe in yourself and find a path forward.
After her lease ended in March 2026, Antwanet found herself without a safe place to go. When she called the police to ask for assistance, she was referred to Austin Street Center.
Antwanet had recently experienced domestic violence and was navigating mental health challenges when she arrived at Austin Street Center. During the intake process, Jessica helped recognize her need for additional support and connected her with resources to begin healing. Because she did not qualify for other domestic violence shelters, Austin Street Center became a safe place for her to regain stability and move forward.
“When I got here, I felt a huge weight off my shoulders,” Antwanet shared. “I felt safe when I was here.”
During her 96 days at Austin Street Center, Antwanet worked with staff to take steps toward a brighter future. She received resume and LinkedIn support through the Employment Center, was connected to domestic violence counseling through Genesis Women’s Shelter, and accessed resources that helped her move forward, including food assistance, dental care through Parkland, and a new phone with free service.
While adjusting to shelter life was challenging at first, Antwanet learned to appreciate the community around her. “So many people have been thoughtful, kind, and considerate,” she said. “People saw my humanity here.”
With support from Austin Street Center, Housing Forward, and community partners, Antwanet secured an apartment through rapid rehousing assistance and moved into her new home on July 7, 2026.
Looking ahead, Antwanet hopes to continue building her independence and find a job that allows her to continue moving forward.
Her advice to others experiencing hardship is simple: “It’s okay to believe in yourself. Even if you’re in a transition period, it’s okay to keep going and believe that you can have better. It’s okay to ask for help and take it, and it’s okay to love yourself throughout.”