Finally Home
Any references to Forward/Horizon Housing have been changed to Onward as a result of the merger of the two organizations.
After a tumultuous period that included obtaining guardianship of Lili, her three-year-old granddaughter, abruptly losing the home she was renting, and finding herself living in shelter with Lili amidst a global health pandemic, the year ended positively for this resilient grandmother and granddaughter duo.
Katherine, who describes herself as a social, easy going, ‘forever 29-year-old’, never expected to find herself seeking affordable housing at this stage of life. She grew up in Nova Scotia and made her way to Calgary to help when her granddaughter was born.
At 14 months of age, Lili was diagnosed with a rare brain disorder that affects many aspects of her life, including mobility, speech and cognition. Lili’s parents were unable to provide the supports she needs, so Katherine stepped in to help raise her beautiful granddaughter. Individuals with Lili’s condition have a life expectancy of 25 years of age, however, something as simple as a cold could escalate to pneumonia and prematurely end Lili’s life.
Having a safe place to call home was of utmost importance during the pandemic to keep Lili safe. While the stressors of the pandemic have impacted Lili in many ways, including escalating existing anxiety, things are looking up.
Since moving into her apartment with Onward, Lili is experiencing stability and security for the first time in her young life. She has started school where she receives a multitude of supports including sensory, physical and occupational therapy.
Katherine says that Lili’s anxiety has improved drastically since moving in. She looks around her new home, which is decorated with pictures from her childhood in Nova Scotia, and mentions how important it is for her to have her own walls where she can display these pictures. “It gives me the opportunity to share my history with Lili and offer her a glimpse of where Grandma comes from,” she says.
Onward has given this family the ability to find security and stability during such uncertain times. “It feels like we are finally home.”
There are over 3,000 Calgarians currently experiencing homelessness, and more than 14,000 households at extreme risk of becoming homeless. You can help make home a reality for individuals like Katherine and Lili by donating to Onward.
