At Dawning Family Services, every family we meet has a unique story shaped by resilience, strength, and courage.
Sharing these stories helps honor the families we serve while also helping the community better understand the realities of family homelessness.
These are stories of hardship, but they are also stories of hope, determination, and support.
They show why our work matters and why programs like Homeless Prevention, Emergency Shelter, Rapid Rehousing, and Work For Success are so important.
When Maria and her two young sons were forced to leave their apartment after a rent increase they could not afford, they spent two nights sleeping in her car before finding Dawning Family Services. Through our Emergency Shelter and Rapid Rehousing programs, Maria found safe, stable housing and was able to return to her job in healthcare. Today, her boys are thriving in school.
“Dawning did not just give us shelter. They gave us peace of mind and a new beginning.”
A layoff left the Johnson family facing eviction. With nowhere else to turn, they connected with our Homeless Prevention team.
We negotiated with their landlord and provided temporary assistance that kept them housed. The Johnsons never missed a day of work or school—and they didn’t have to face the trauma of losing their home.
“Your support gave us the time we needed to get back on our feet. Thank you for being there.”
A devoted single father of a toddler, Terrence was couch surfing and struggling to find stable employment. Dawning enrolled him in our Work for Success program, helped him prepare a resume, and supported his job search. Today, he works full-time and is living in permanent housing.
“This program changed my life. I’m proud of the dad I’ve become.”
Use the button above to donate now to help homeless families in Tampa Bay.
Together, we can help end family homelessness in Hillsborough County.
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