When the Autistic Resilience Network sent me an emergency grant last month, they opened up a new way forward for me—and this has already changed the entire course of my life.

After months of severe illness and the difficult ending of a partnership left me without a home or any savings, I'd gone through the past year shifting around a patchwork of temporary, socially strained crash spots and occasionally sleeping in my car.  I'd become increasingly unraveled and deeply burned out.

I had called multiple nonprofits and government agencies about my need for stable housing over that time, but either they were unable to offer anything or informed me that their process would stretch over several months before I'd even find out whether I could be accepted into their programs.

So when an incredible housing opportunity was offered to me—but I realized that I couldn't come up with all the initial costs fast enough to secure it—I reached out to ARN for help. They got back to me right away, explained their process clearly, and were so kind, warm, and concerned for my well-being. The urgency of my situation was taken very seriously, and I got the grant confirmation so fast that I was able to follow through on committing to the apartment I'd been offered.

And now—I live within a mile of all three part time jobs! Now that I have a consistent home base so close by, I've had the capacity available to take on more work hours and to accept offers of extra last-minute shifts.

I also get to live with an autistic friend. Before moving into this apartment with me, she was unhoused and on her own as well; both of our lives have been greatly improved by ARN’s support.

In addition, having a more stable life has created enough capacity for me to finally begin seeking out long-neglected medical and mental health treatment.

I am so grateful that ARN exists, and for all the people who fund their work—they came through for me when I really needed help, and created a bridge across the gap that I couldn't cross alone.

D. G.