Hi my name is Dawn and I currently live in a Co-op. Prior to my transition there, I started out in a group home in Mississauga where I stayed for a year and a half. I eventually tried to go back home but couldn’t bear it because of the mental anguish. I lived in Blessed Teresa Missionaries of Charity, a group home for women with psychiatric issues. When I became pregnant, I moved to Nazareth house –a supportive home for women and infants at risk. Thereafter, I experienced various precarious housing arrangements before finally moving to Houselink Community Homes. I was then able to transition to a market rent apartment before moving to my co-op where I live now. Although I no longer live in Houselink, I still benefit from many of the programs and supports that they offer their tenants. I work as a chef in their community kitchen and assist with landscaping. I’m also a peer advocate support worker with the Dream Team. I have made many lifelong friends while on this 18 year journey. I plan to stay with Houselink and the Dream Team until I retire at which point, I hope to go to University.
Dawn D’Cruz
