Follow-up with Nita

Arielle had the pleasure of interviewing Nita again to hear about her most recent updates! Check out Nita’s original story here: https://www.projectwhy.biz/post/anita-l-from-a-will-to-the-streets

After spending over two years waiting for stable housing, Nita finally found a place through a housing service. The program connected Nita with an elderly couple who offered a basement apartment in their home. In exchange, Nita would watch their house while they traveled, and the rent could be used towards any travel expenses. They welcomed Nita into their lives, saying Nita could be part of their family. For a few months, Nita found stability. 

However, after about six months, the couple decided they no longer wanted to participate in the program. Even though they assured Nita that she did nothing wrong, Nita found herself having less than a month to find somewhere else to live. Unfortunately, the housing service could not secure Nita another placement on such short notice. Nita found that her options were limited. She could either move into another extended stay hotel, with rates beyond what she could afford, or she could live in her vehicle and put most of her belongings in storage. Nita especially did not prefer to stay in a shelter.

Along with housing insecurities, Nita faces concerns regarding personal relationships. In about two months, her ex-boyfriend is expected to be released from federal prison. He served only two years of what was supposed to be a five-year sentence. As a domestic violence survivor and a single woman over 55, Nita feels that her situation feels increasingly precarious.

However, Nita still remains hopeful. In the meantime, Nita has been searching for higher-paying job opportunities, but finding stable work has been challenging. “Retirement on social security isn’t an option for me,” Nita claims. “The benefits wouldn’t be enough to cover my expenses, so I need to keep working for several more years.”

Along with her career advancement, Nita has also requested restitution from her ex-boyfriend, but after more than two years, she still hasn’t received any monetary compensation. As of now, Nita is trying to figure out her next steps, but she finds that the uncertainty is overwhelming.

This story was written by Project WHY's Journalism Intern, Mya Oro.