Jennifer's Story

Jennifer’s story represents the courageous journey that many women take every year in leaving violence behind and embarking on a new path of self-sufficiency and wellness.

Carrying her son, and only the clothes they were wearing, Jennifer made the brave decision to leave. She found a safe haven at a transition house. There she was given a WIN Gift Certificate, which she used at a WIN store to choose some clothing and toys.

After a period of respite, Jennifer found housing and the transition house counsellor referred her to the WIN New Start Program. Through this program, she received furniture, beds, linens, and other household items that made her house feel like a home.

When we checked in with her, we learned that as a newly single parent, Jennifer’s food budget was stretched thin despite working two jobs. Through the Crisis and Referral Program, WIN provided her with Food Gift Certificates to help fill her short-term need.

In talking with WIN’s Program Coordinator, Jennifer shared that she was one course short finishing her degree. She applied to the WIN Self Sufficiency Program and received a bursary that enabled her to complete her last course.

Today, Jennifer now has a better paying job in the healthcare field and found balance for her and her son. She talks about feeling supported by her community and proud of her ability to accomplish her goals.