Client Story Jackie

Jackie’s life spiraled out of control after the tragic accidental drowning of her child. She struggled with addiction for years in an effort to cope with the trauma. She had been to several rehab and recovery facilities but said “those things never worked for me until I found the Sisterhood.” Jackie came to the Sisterhood Program at Austin Street Center in the summer of 2022. She was eager to take advantage of the Xela Internship Program. “I loved learning everything about working with the candles. It made me feel productive to do something that really mattered. I felt like I was in my element,” said Jackie.

During her time at Austin Street, Jackie underwent counseling and learned financial management as well as life and social skills. “I learned selfsufficiency and to take responsibility for my own actions. Coming to Austin Street and the Sisterhood was the best thing that happened to me. My case manager went above and beyond for me. I really felt like she was my guardian angel throughout my whole journey.” After four short months, she was able to successfully resolve her homelessness, moving into her own apartment in October 2022.