Lisa* arrived in Buffalo alone, without children, close family or a place to call home. What she did have was resilience and a strong determination to rebuild her life. She made the courageous decision to flee her abusive relationship in Florida and move to Buffalo.
Her journey led her to Haven House, where Lisa entered the emergency shelter program and began her healing process. For ninety days, she focused on regaining her sense of safety and who she is as an individual.
With the guidance of Dinoshka Ortiz, Domestic Violence Housing Assessment Specialist, Lisa enrolled in the Haven House Rapid Rehousing program. The program’s resources helped Lisa secure and furnish her own apartment just over a month ago. Though she rebuilt her independence, Lisa continues to stay connected to Haven House, regularly sharing updates and messages of gratitude.
“This transformation is made possible through the support and structure of the Rapid Rehousing program,” Dinoshka emphasized.
The program provides survivors of domestic violence with a path to safe, affordable housing and long-term stability, offering up to two years of assistance that covers essential costs like security deposits and rental stipends.
Since joining Haven house in 2024, Dinoshka has helped rehouse about twenty individuals and families, including Lisa. The need remains high, with over eighty people currently on the waiting list for assistance.
Lisa’s story is just one powerful example of the life changing impact of the Rapid Rehousing program and the dedicated advocates who support survivors every step of the way.
*Name changed for confidentiality.