YPAB’s 5th Annual Hanging Flower Basket Fundraiser in Support of Cornerstone
April 9, 2025
"This Mother’s Day, I think of my mom and the strength she gave me. I know she'd be proud."
My name is Nathalie, and I want to share my story with you because it’s a story of hope, strength, and about the power of community. It’s also a story about my mother, Pierrette, who was my guiding light, and whose love and resilience continue to inspire me every day.
I never thought I would become homeless. I grew up in Rockland, just 45 minutes east of Ottawa, raised by loving parents. It was my mom who shaped me the most. She was strong, kind, and always believed in me. When she passed away when I was just 18, I was devastated.
Years later, I found myself in a situation I never imagined.
My common-law partner told me, out of the blue, to pack two bags and leave. Just like that, I was out on my own, with nowhere to go. I tried to stay strong—like my mother would have wanted—but I had hit rock bottom. I called my dad, crying, and he took me in for a while. I found an apartment in town, on my own again, but struggled with finding a more permanent place to live. When my landlord returned from overseas, I was evicted. I had nowhere to turn but an emergency shelter.
Life in this city shelter was incredibly difficult. There was violence and drugs. I started drinking to cope. Each morning, I had to leave so the building could be cleaned, no matter the weather—cold, rain, snow, or heat. I just wanted stability. I just wanted to be independent again.
One day, I saw a pamphlet at the shelter for Cornerstone Housing for Women. When a Cornerstone staff member named Terri Lynn came to the shelter to talk about their programs and a new supportive housing residence that was opening, I knew right away that this was the opportunity I needed.
I applied right away, hoping for a fresh start.
On Halloween in 2017, a staff member was distributing chocolates. I asked if she had heard anything about my application, and then I got the news — I was accepted! I couldn’t believe it.
On December 3rd, I moved into Princeton Residence, a day I’ll never forget. For the first time in so long, I had my own space. I could cook my own meals, create crafts again, and even volunteer, just like I used to when my mother was alive. I finally felt like I belonged.
Cornerstone saved my life. Without their support, and the support of donors like you, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
After moving into Princeton Residence, I received a diagnosis for a personality disorder that had gone undiagnosed for years, and I finally got the mental health support I needed. I stopped drinking. I attended workshops on budgeting and cooking. I started going grocery shopping again. Bit by bit, I rebuilt my independence. And for the first time in along time, I felt hope.
This place is more than just a roof over my head—it’s a family. Every year, we take part in Cornerstone’s Coldest Night of the Year walkathon, where we serve hot chocolate, coffee, and treats to the walkers. I love sharing my story and telling people how Cornerstone changes lives.
We also have an incredible summer art sale, where we showcase the beautiful work we create with donated supplies. And one of my absolute favourite traditions is our trip to a nearby farm, where we get to be around horses—my favourite animal. It reminds me of my childhood, of the simple joys that I thought I had lost forever.
This Mother’s Day, I think of my mom and the strength she gave me. I know she would be proud of how far I’ve come. But I also know that I wouldn’t be here without Cornerstone—and without people like you who make this work possible. Can Cornerstone count on your donation this Mother's Day?
With your donation, you can give another woman like me the chance to rebuild her life, to find a safe place to call home, and to rediscover her own strength. Your gift will help provide shelter, housing, meals, and programs that empower women to rebuild their lives.
Mother’s Day is about celebrating the love and strength of the women who shape us. What better way to honour that than by helping a woman in need find safety, dignity, and a fresh start?
Please, take a moment to give today. Your generosity can change a life—just like mine was changed.
With gratitude,
Nathalie
P.S. Your donation today can help another woman find the safety and support she desperately needs. This Mother’s Day, honour the strength of the women in your life by giving the gift of hope.
