Client Profile

Seeing Dahlia for the first time you sense that she is not someone who is familiar with the shelter system. Nicely dressed and soft spoken she sits with her 4 children to recount her story, which at times, seems too much for her to bear.

Dahlia begins by saying that she grew up in Ohio where she was raised by a loving mother. It was her mother who encouraged Dahlia to go to college. Due to limited funds, Dahlia enrolled in a junior college where she earned an A.A. degree. Deciding it was time to move on she got a job at a large hotel in South Carolina. For the next several years she enjoyed her new life as an independent young woman with a bright future ahead of her.

She later met a young man who eventually became her husband. Their first child came along shortly thereafter. Out of necessity, Dahlia returned to work and continued to thrive at the job she loved. It was only after her second child arrived that her husband insisted she stay at home to care for their growing family.

Years later they moved to New York where Dahlia’s husband had a successful career. The kids, now numbering 4, were all doing well in school and the family lived in a large, beautiful duplex. It was only after the economic downturn that Dahlia’s husband became verbally and physically abusive. Eventually he lost his job and the family was evicted from their home. Her husband left them and suddenly Dahlia’s life turned into a nightmare. With no family to turn to and 4 children to support she ended up in the shelter system. She thought her husband would come to rescue them once he knew where they were. In fact, she didn’t allow the children to unpack their bags for weeks thinking it was a very temporary situation. Unfortunately, after 2 months she decided to move into high-gear to get out of the shelter and into their own apartment.

Dahlia started attending job fairs at Junius Liberty even though she hasn’t had a job in 15 years. She said that the volunteers have been instrumental in teaching her computer skills and helped her update a very old resume. The counselors at the shelter have been very supportive and a constant source of encouragement during this very difficult time. The children are adjusting well and enjoy playing in the playground.

Dahlia is eager to start interviewing. At this point she will consider anything that covers her rent, food, and has medical insurance. She knows things are tough and it’s a lot to hope for, but the staff at Junius Liberty and the volunteers have given her the confidence to face this challenge. WIN has provided them with shelter, opportunity, and hope. Without WIN she cannot imagine what would have happened to her and her children.