Ability Housing

Imagine facing a life-threatening disease while not having a home. In addition to not feeling well, you might have to battle the elements when sleeping outside or not have a place where a doctor can get in touch with you regarding your treatment.

That’s what Jan and Wesley were facing until about a year ago. Jan is now feeling much better and very happy to be living in a house provided by Ability Housing.

Jan and Wesley came to Jacksonville several years ago from their native Lakeland, Florida. Jan met Wesley there and according to her ‘they hung out together and eventually got married.’

Jan and Wesley’s challenge has been finding an affordable place to live. “Every now and then I’d rent a place but I couldn’t keep up with the rent or I couldn’t afford the deposit and the rent,” she explained.

They eventually found their way to the Sulzbacher Center for the Homeless where they attended the Homeward Bound program. Their living coach helped them find a home through Ability Housing.

“Having a home has made a huge difference in my life,” said Jan, who is a cancer survivor and HIV positive. “I can stay clean and I get to cook my own meals. I’ve gained a lot of weight since we have the house and I can now refrigerate food.”

“I think it’s a great program,” she added. “I really believe that the way to go now is up!”