Wings of Resilience: Donna's Story of Transformation and Hope

Donna Jamison smiles during an interview with us in the upper-level courtyard at Wilton Court in Palo Alto.

"I like butterflies," shares Donna, a resident at Wilton Court and a Housing Choices client. To Donna, butterflies embody more than beauty; they symbolize the presence of a loved one - a guiding spirit. "It's like they're visiting you," explains Donna.

Donna previously resided in Morgan Hill, but the high rent and unsettling environment prompted her to seek out better living conditions. Donna yearned for a more affordable and supportive community where she felt loved and accommodated for.

Donna’s service coordinator recognized the potential fit and referred her to Housing Choices. With the assistance of her Housing Coordinator, Donna submitted an application to Wilton Court, one of the newest Partner Properties in Palo Alto.

After submitting all the necessary documents and interviewing with the property manager, Donna was able to secure a brand new apartment at Wilton Court.

Crystal, Donna's Resident Coordinator at Wilton Court, shares, "When I first met Donna, she was really quiet. She didn't want anyone to know she was part of any program or that she had anything else going on." Crystal notes that Donna preferred solitude, keeping her challenges private, and avoiding the spotlight.

Yet, within the span of a few months of being a Housing Choices client, Donna started opening up more and even volunteered to speak at the Wilton Court Open House event. In her speech, she shared her inspiring journey alongside Housing Choices, expressing gratitude for the hospitable environment at Wilton Court and the dedicated staff who fostered it.

Donna Jamison (left) shares her journey of finding a safe home at Wilton Court, where her disability is cared for, with a crowd of residents, policy makers, and other community members. Luisa Curiel (right), Resident Coordination Program Manager, provides company and support during her speech.

Crystal's attentive care played a pivotal role in Donna's journey. Through daily check-ins and social events, Crystal has created a supportive environment for Donna to live independently in a much safer community.

"Crystal always calls me to ask how I’m doing, how was my day, and that’s really nice," Donna smiles.

Donna's participation in various social events showcases her newfound sociability and sense of belonging. Crystal emphasizes, “She realizes that people do want to be involved with her and feel that they are here to help her. She's grown and become more social."

"I just really like it. I feel really blessed to have this nice new apartment," Donna shares.

During the Open Housing event, residents at Wilton Court came together to paint a butterfly mural. As butterflies symbolize the presence of a loved one, Donna's journey at Wilton Court echoes the transformation of a living space into a cherished home, where the nurturing support of Wilton Court’s staff and Crystal's attentive care have brought upon newfound sociability, belonging, and confidence.