Meet Elizabeth

“I remember seeing my apartment for the first time and being shocked at how wonderful it was to have my own home. I have been able to reconnect with my Indigenous culture thanks to the Minwaashin outreach program. I love it here!”

When I was living in Peterborough, I was in an abusive relationship and felt I had to leave for my safety. I was able to get a one-way ticket to go back to my hometown of Ottawa.

When I returned to Ottawa it was difficult to find housing. During this time I was very distraught and hopeless. But luckily, I was able to find a place at the Cornerstone shelter where I stayed for 4 months. During this time I met Nicola, the manager of 515 Maclaren, who offered me a room. While I was at 515, I was able to enjoy my life again. I was able to learn cooking skills and make good friends.

In 2018 I was accepted to live at Princeton, Cornerstone’s newest housing residence – in my own apartment. I remember seeing my apartment for the first time and being shocked at how wonderful it was to have my own home. I was so excited to move and I was overjoyed.

I felt welcomed by the staff team. I now have a home of my own.

Having my own apartment means I can cook meals on my own, decorate my space, and keep items that have meaning to me. Since moving here I have also been able to reconnect with my Indigenous culture thanks to the Minwaashin outreach program. I love it here!