When Julianna first connected with Community Resource Center, she was navigating an overwhelming period of uncertainty. She had lost her job and her home after leaving a domestic violence situation to protect herself and her three children. Without stable housing, she and her family experienced homelessness for nearly a year.
“Before, every day was a struggle,” Julianna shared. Julianna and her family slept in their car or stayed in hotels. Without a safe place to live, planning for the future, or even the following day, felt nearly impossible.
“I didn’t know what I was doing the next day,” she said. “It’s hard to find a job when you don’t have a place to go and you’re worried about where to go next.”
Julianna initially received support through CRC’s Rapid Rehousing Program. As CRC’s team learned more about her family’s circumstances, they recognized that she needed longer term housing and continued support. Through coordinated advocacy, Julianna transitioned into CRC’s Permanent Supportive Housing Program and moved into an apartment in 2024.
Having a stable home gave Julianna and her children something they had been missing: the ability to feel safe today and begin thinking about tomorrow.
Julianna began working closely with her CRC case manager, Ashley, to identify her goals and connect with resources. Together, they updated her public benefits, increasing the CalWORKs assistance available to her family. Julianna also remained engaged in physical and mental health services, giving her space to focus on her well-being and the future she wants to build.
“These resources made me think about what I want for my family. It’s given me a chance to do that,” Julianna shared. “Now I don’t have to worry about where my kids are going to sleep tonight.”
For Julianna, CRC’s support has meant having someone consistently present, listening and encouraging her as she determines the next steps for herself and her family. “I worked with Ashley and she’s always checking in on me,” she said. “Growing up I didn’t have that – people there for me. It’s nice to have you there to care. That’s something that I really love.”
Julianna continues to navigate an ongoing domestic violence situation and has a protective order in place. CRC staff remain alongside her, providing continued support and advocacy as she protects her family and moves forward.
Today, Julianna continues to maintain stable housing and has created a safe, nurturing home for her children. She recently welcomed a healthy baby girl and is focused on rebuilding her confidence, caring for her family and continuing her journey toward greater well-being and independence.
“I’m confident in tomorrow every day,” Julianna shared. “Every day I thank God for the outcome and I’m not so worried anymore. I’m very thankful that I came across you.”
With a safe home and supportive people beside her, Julianna is building the future she wants for herself and her children.
