Sunrise Stories: Meet Diana

Diana became a single mom in 2009 and moved to Austin after separating from her abusive ex-husband. Foundation for the Homeless gave her and her three daughters, now 21, 25, and 29, shelter and helped her escape her marriage. Her oldest daughter became pregnant at 16 and has 3 kids. 

Diana has 8 grandchildren and 3 of her granddaughters live with her. They were previously living in a one-bedroom apartment. She googled “homeless services in Austin” and found Sunrise Navigation Center. With the help of Sunrise’s Wayfinder program, Shannon was able to pay the deposit for a 4 bed/2 bath apartment.

“It’s lovely to see my grandbabies smile. They have their own space and I can cook in the kitchen for them. They’ll be able to have amazing memories. This has been the home I’ve always prayed for and we’ve been blessed with a smooth transition. Everyone from Sunrise to the apartment coordinator have been amazing.”

Diana’s oldest has leaned on her a lot since they have similar experiences. She is able to pay it forward and give her oldest the support that she didn’t have when she was going through a difficult situation.

“We tend to get settled in a comfort zone, especially with deep trauma and I have worked on knowing that God has a purpose, which has helped heal my trauma and a lot of pain. I’ve forgiven a lot of people so I can focus on supporting my family.”

She started working a remote job in April and enrolled her granddaughters in a great school where they can feel safe and make friends. Working from home has helped with this big life transition. She is more healed, loves herself, and has become more of a social butterfly.  

When asked what home means to her after experiencing this journey, Diana said, “Home means love, laughter, and being able to live. To become more successful and be able to see my grandbabies settled at a school means the world to me. It’s all about love and peace, and we’re all at peace finally.”

Diana’s mom, who she hasn’t seen in 9 years, was recently able to get a flight and visit her. Now that Diana is settled, she has a place where her family can gather and make new memories.