Since its inception, NOWS’ success rate has almost doubled from 47% to 88% of women and children who were able to transition to independent and sustainable living.

NOWS is now a fixture in the New Orleans community with over:

• 504 women and children served,
• 27,000 nights of shelter provided and nearly
• 200 families now living independently

Success comes in all shapes and sizes, and the measure of success is different depending upon with whom you speak, their past experiences and their future goals. The women and children who reside at the New Orleans Women’s Shelter are no different. Some of our women have come a long way and would like to share a bit about their success.

Allison’s Story

The New Orleans Women’s Shelter provided for me and my two girls in many ways. As soon as we stepped through the doors of the Shelter, the staff went out of their way to make us fell safe and secure. During our stay, we received food, toiletries, clothing, and more importantly support for my family. My daughters made plenty of friends, read new books, and participated in arts and crafts projects hosted by the Shelter. I was able to approach the staff with problems I was facing and together we set attainable goals to work through them. Now, I have a job, my children are enrolled in school, and things are straightening themselves out with much thanks to the New Orleans Women’s Shelter.

Sincerely,

Allison (NOWS resident 2012)

Lynell’s Story

By living in the shelter, I was able to provide my three children a safe place to play and learn while I received the support needed to further my education. The fellow women helped me achieve a new level of independence by teaching me how to get around the city and prepare a resume on my own. With the staff’s assistance, I learned about the benefit of completing my high school education and also experienced new things like yoga. My children and I shared our favorite Christmas memories at NOWS and made the most of the family activities including outings to the zoo, aquarium, and picnics. The NOWS even helped get school uniforms for my children. They were so happy to get them, and looked great for their first day of school. The encouragement I received at NOWS got me to where I am at today. In one week I will be living in my own home with my children. I am thankful to NOWS staff for giving me the time and space to make that transition.

Love,

Lynell (NOWS Resident 2012)