“There are more layers to homelessness—hunger, health, poverty—than I ever imagined,” Jillian reflects, looking back on her past year supporting HONOR’s mission to provide housing and crisis services.
She shares the story of Angela, a woman in her early sixties who once had a successful career in social services. Angela knew the support systems available—but never imagined needing them herself. That changed when illness disrupted her life, leaving her without stable housing.
Struggling with homelessness and an undiagnosed heart condition, Angela’s health and safety were at serious risk. She had no access to care, and nowhere to go.
That changed when she was added to the Coordinated Entry List and received an apartment through the Housing First program. Through HONOR, she accessed medical care and critical support services that helped stabilize her condition—and her life. Angela believes she’s alive today thanks to the housing and the referral to health services she received through HONOR.
Now living independently in Port Jervis, Angela continues to receive support and is on a path toward full self-sufficiency. She’s found joy in landscape painting, transforming her apartment into a personal gallery. With her landlord’s blessing, she’s even begun painting nature scenes in shared areas—bringing beauty and brightness to her neighbors. Angela’s journey is a powerful reminder: with shelter, care, and compassion, healing and hope are possible.
*name changed for privacy