Trinity and Barbara: A Sense of Pride

Nearly a decade ago, Trinity was like most other Bay Area teens except for one thing she kept secret: Her family was nearly homeless. 

Her mother Barbara had lost her job and her East Bay house, forcing her to move her three children (including Trinity) into a series of transient homes. They lived in a garage and then a number of low-price motels — far from an ideal family environment. 

“I experienced a lot of fear but, even more, I had a sense of embarrassment,” Trinity said. “I tried to avoid telling my friends where I lived.” 

While living with her mother and two brothers, Trinity and her family sometimes shared motel rooms that had no kitchen or even windows. “It was as bad as it sounds,” she said. 

Fortunately, help was on the way. Trinity’s family was accepted to live at Abode’s Sunrise Village Emergency Shelter, which provides housing, food, and services to families and individuals. 

After five months, Trinity and her family moved from the shelter into temporary housing. They then found a permanent home in Union City, where they since have lived for eight years. 

After gaining permanent housing and the stability it provides, Trinity worked hard to ensure she’d also have financial security. Starting at age 15, she worked full-time restaurant jobs and was promoted to a supervisor’s role. After earning her high school diploma, she graduated from a trade school and became a certified medical assistant. 

Trinity now works full-time at a family medical practice and is her family’s main income provider. She has accomplished a lot in the face of major challenges.

“Now I feel a sense of pride,” she said. “Having that roof over our heads — that’s what matters the most.” 

Trinity credits Abode employees for providing household appliances and food, and for being a great family friend when they needed emotional support. 

“I don’t know where we’d be without Abode, to be honest,” she said.