Michelle R.’s Story: Driven to Make a Difference
At age 50, Michelle is driving forward both as a bus driver, providing safe and reliable transportation for the community, and on her new path in life.
Five days a week, Michelle drives her route through Minneapolis. She is glad to play an important role in helping passengers get to where they need to be. With her generous hospitality and beaming smile, Michelle hopes she can add some joy to their day.
Michelle is grateful for what she has accomplished in the past year. She secured a full-time job, stable housing, and a furnished home through Bridging. She says it has taken many months of persistence, faith, and hope to arrive at this point.
Michelle left behind a stressful career as a truck driver when health issues made it difficult to make the long trips around 13 states.
“My truck was my home, so when I left my job, I had no place to go.”
A golden opportunity in the form of a used vehicle from a generous donor was the catalyst for Michelle’s move to Minnesota. With the convenience and mobility of transportation, Michelle could gain access to employment opportunities, housing, and financial stability.
Michelle bought a one-way bus ticket to Minnesota to pick up the car and start her life anew.
“I had to get out and make things happen. I had to work and earn money, so I could afford a place to live. I did Door Dash all day and every night. Every day. Rain or shine.”
Michelle was focused on moving toward stability. She started calling shelters and finally found one with an open bed.
“The staff and people at the shelter were really nice. I was so grateful I could stay there while I got things in my life together.”
After a few weeks at the shelter, Michelle began her housing search, which proved to be an arduous task.
“I was so ready to get into my own space,” she says. “The particular shelter I stayed at didn’t help with housing. I had to put my feet in the street to find my own place. It was difficult to say the least. I was looking for safe, affordable, and quality housing. I went out to see some places that were in horrible condition. I was connected with a housing agency for help, but I needed to give $250 — that’s money I didn’t have!”
Eventually, Michelle’s navigations skills led her to an agency that helped her secure housing.
“I called and emailed until they finally called me and said, ‘You’re approved, Michelle!’ Finally, I had my own place!”
Michelle moved in, and, with the help of Women of Nations, a Bridging partner agency, she secured a referral to Bridging.”
A Furnished Home Through Bridging
Michelle remembers the joy and surprise she experienced while shopping at Bridging.
“My experience at Bridging was absolutely amazing. The experience was beautiful. The volunteers helped me match everything together. I was so happy to have them. I’m smiling so big right now, just thinking about them again!”
She was thrilled to choose the furnishings she needed for her new home.
“I was blessed by Bridging —100%. I was really fortunate to go there and get things that are so useful. I got furniture. I have a dresser, I have a place to put my clothes, a place for my shoes. I got towels and blankets. I got a bed. My quality of sleep on my mattress is better. It has played a tremendous role in me waking up every day feeling rested. When I walk in my living room area and see everything, I feel very grateful.”
The Impact of a Furnished Home
Living in her new place for months, Michelle feels that her furnished home has had a tremendous and positive impact on her mental health.
“I feel more confident. It gives me peace of mind. I didn’t have to scuffle up money to buy furniture. It was a big burden lifted off of me. A furnished home – It’s boosted my self-esteem. You can show up better for other people. Knowing that I have all my stuff in here, I can hold my head all the way up.”
Pursuing Plans and Goals
Michelle is enjoying each day. She takes time to take care of herself. The work of reestablishing her stability will take more time and steady work.
As she makes a fresh start, Michelle is excited to revisit her goals for her future. She’s grateful to have the time and stability to devote her heart to a purpose that means so much to her.
“I have dreams and goals, set for my life. I am trying to build something. I’m working to create a home for women when they get out of prison. I already have a 5013C. I’m moving my business from Texas to Minnesota. It’s called Victorious Women House of Peace. I want to help women get back on their feet.”
“I’m never going to give up on it. These challenges were purposeful in my life. I had to go through it. I needed to have the fortitude to help other people do it too. One day I will be able to pay it forward, Knowing what happened to me, I want to make it happen for someone else.”