Housing First Changes Lives
Growing up, Paige experienced a turbulent relationship with her mom and twin sister—so much so that she left home at just 14
She stayed with a friend for a while before ending up on the streets.
“There was nowhere I could really go,” she recalls.
While at her lowest point, Paige was approached by an outreach team at a subway station who connected her to VOA-GNY’s Street to Home program, our Housing First pilot that moves unsheltered individuals directly into housing.
Now 22, Paige has her own apartment at Eden House, one of VOA-GNY’s permanent supportive housing programs in the Bronx. Through Street to Home, Paige found more than a place to rest—she found a path towards stability.
“I’m a different person,” Paige says. “I wanted to fight everybody every second because I was so angry.”
Paige attributes her growth to VOA-GNY social worker, Charlotte Copeland, who has worked closely with her to develop communication and anger management skills over the last three years. “She really cares,” Paige says.
While at Eden House, Paige has been able to focus on managing her chronic health condition with a primary care doctor and regular medication. She has also secured important documents like her birth certificate to get a city ID, which helped her get a job as a cleaner.
With the skills she’s gained, Paige now has a healthier relationship with her family and adores being an aunt to her two young nephews. “They bring a lot of light to my days,” she says.