When Aquilah gave birth prematurely in 2017, she had to remain in the hospital for a month. She received help with her rent while she was hospitalized, but when she returned to her apartment, she struggled to pay the late fee and was evicted. She spent the next three years staying in shelters and temporary living situations with family and friends, along with her two children.

In January 2021, Aquilah called Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis, which supports families experiencing homelessness. Family Promise partnered with Glick last June to begin the Apartment Shelter Project, created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Project allocates furnished apartments to families experiencing homelessness until permanent housing can be established, providing much-needed security during a traumatic time.

Thanks to the program, Aquilah was able to move into a townhome at Carriage House East in February of this year. In May, she officially signed a lease, giving herself and her kids a stable home. She also enrolled in Family Promise’s AfterCare program, which will help her retain housing as she continues to get back on her feet.

“My daughter can’t believe she has her own room,” shared Aquilah. “My kids are always smiling now!”

Aquilah’s story was featured in Family Promise’s #NightWithoutABed fundraiser, which raises awareness for families experiencing homelessness. Watch the video here.