When Sherry moved into her apartment in September 2023, she was looking for peace, independence, and a place to call home. After staying with her sister and other temporary arrangements, rising rent and health challenges made it unsustainable. “The place I was living in was remodeling, and the rent was going to skyrocket,” she recalled. “I had to find something that matched my income.”
She worked most of her life, most recently in direct care, but physical issues forced her to stop. Widow’s benefits helped, but money was still tight. “If I had to pay regular rent, it would take my whole check,” she said. “I wouldn’t have anything left for food, electricity, or transportation.”
Affordable housing has changed everything. “This place saved me,” Sherry said. “Without it, I probably would’ve been homeless. I’ve always been independent, and I didn’t want to rely on my sister forever.”
Her apartment brought more than financial relief—it restored dignity and community. She’s made friends and feels supported by staff. “They try their best to keep this place clean and safe,” she said. “Our manager looks out for us. We have meetings where we can share what needs fixing, and they listen.”
She’s also made big health changes. After smoking for 45 years, she quit two years ago. “I used to say I’d smoke until the day I died,” she said. “Then I got the flu and couldn’t smoke. That was it.”
She’s still navigating Medicare plans and medications, but housing-based support helps. “I didn’t even know about Ability Housing until someone from my congregation told me” She said.
For Sherry, affordable housing isn’t just shelter, it’s a chance to reclaim her life. “I’ve worked hard all my life. I don’t like asking for help, but sometimes you must,” she said. “I go to the food bank when I need to, and I thank God it’s there.”
She’s proud of her apartment. “They work hard to keep the hallways and laundry rooms clean,” she said. “I do my part, and they do theirs.”
Sherry is grateful. “This place changed my life. I feel safe, I feel seen, and I feel like I belong.”