Nita & Mia

Nita says having a place of her own still feels surreal.

She finds herself pausing to take in simple moments like sitting at her own kitchen table, watching TV from her couch, and even knocking on her 10-year-old Mia’s door to get her attention. Nita adopted Mia, her biological granddaughter, years ago.

“I look around and think, ‘I really have this?’” she says. “It feels really good to have an address again.” 

Mia, Pinky and Nita in front of their new home.

After an unexpected eviction nearly four years ago, Nita and Mia were left without a place to stay. With an eviction on her record and being unable to work due to a disability, Nita said she didn’t have many options. They lived out of their car, crashed on people’s couches, and most recently, stayed at City Rescue Mission’s shelter. 

Nita, 66, says she never imagined going through this experience. The instability and discomfort put a strain on everything, including her relationship with Mia. They even had to find someone to take care of Mia’s emotional support animal, a guinea pig named Pinky, while they focused on getting back on their feet.

“It was hell,” Nita said. “I felt beat down, and I had given up because I didn’t expect anything to change.”

Fortunately, someone encouraged her to visit the Homeless Alliance for assistance. She connected with case management, and about six months later, she got a call that there was housing available. 

“When we saw this place, Mia said, ‘We want it, mom,’” Nita says. “It’s a really good fit for us. I’m just so grateful.”

Nita and Mia have been making the most of it ever since. Focus on Home helped furnish their new place. Nita has been reconnecting with her crafting hobby. Mia and Pinky are now reunited, and Mia even has her own room for the first time ever.

Nita said the security of their home has strengthened their relationship. Mia has also grown more confident and is thriving in school.

Now, Mia is eagerly planning her first ever sleepover birthday party. Nita said she’s just as excited to finally be able to host holidays and family gatherings.

“There’s nothing like having your own place,” Nita says.