Coming to Cross Roads House was a difficult step for Carol to take. "Being homeless is not easy and nobody expects it is going to happen to them. And when it does, you kind of find yourself overwhelmed, and you're just not sure where to look."

Carol soon realized that Cross Roads House would not only provide a roof over her head, but programs and services to help her start over. "When I had to come [to Cross Roads House], it was probably the best thing for me because there were services that just staying with a friend could not provide. I don't think I'd be at this point where I have a job and I have a future if I hadn't taken the step to come here."

In the six months since she arrived at Cross Roads House, Carol has made huge strides. "Since I got here, I've gotten my GED, I am taking a class at Great Bay Community College, and I'm working. I just got a promotion which will get me medical, dental and eye care benefits. So I'm excited."

Carol's biggest challenge now is finding affordable housing and transportation. Although she is eligible for low income housing, waiting lists are long. In the meanwhile she is apartment hunting. "Right now I'm looking for an apartment in Portsmouth that's on the bus route so I can get back and forth to work and that's affordable. That's the hard part."

Carol admits that although taking the initial step to come to Cross Roads House was hard, she is grateful for all the help she has received since she arrived. "I can honestly say that if I hadn't come here, I would not be in a good place in my life. I'm still at a shelter, but I'm at such a good place in my life. Everybody here is supportive. Being here has made a difference for me. It has given me the strength to do what I needed to do to make my life better."

Carol reflects on her time at Cross Roads, "I appreciate everything that's been done. I've been given and the chance to succeed, and make something special out of my life, and I feel like I'm getting there."