Upon arrival, Maria Norma was unemployed and deeply depressed. Her depression was rooted in the tragic loss of her daughter three years earlier - a grief that was still raw and overwhelming.  PVSS case managers moved quickly to connect Maria Norma to our Emotional Stability Counselor, Mireya Contreras. During our conversation, the pain was still present along with tears but there was healing too. Maria Norma found safety in sharing her feelings with Mireya and bravely faced her grief. She shared, “Mireya validated my feelings when no one else had, not even other counselors.”

While living in the Shelter, Maria Norma made progress in other areas as well. She found a job that she loves. It pays well and she is a diligent saver. Upon moving out, Maria Norma takes her considerable savings but what’s greater – she takes hope! A hope that knows there are people who care, who don’t judge, and who create opportunities for success. And she leaves behind this advice to others in the program, “Work on yourself and don’t listen to people who put you down. Follow the rules even though it’s hard – it’s worth it!”