Antionette’s faith and determination

Antionette comes from a big, outgoing family that loves getting together “just because.” With nine siblings, their gatherings are always full of laughter, food, and stories. “We’re very family-oriented,” she says. “I love Sunday dinners, birthdays, just being around each other, and taking pictures. We just like being together.”

As the oldest, she naturally became a caretaker and leader, someone who “rises to the occasion.” “They all look up to me,” she says. “And I handle it as much as I can. Someone’s got to.”

That strength helped her through losing her home while raising three children, even as a steady and dedicated worker. She stayed focused on her family’s future. “I learned that if I really stick my mind to it, I can actually do it,” she reflects. “And I’ve learned that I need to put me first on certain occasions because I have a big heart.”

Antionette loves cheering on her sons as they grow as football quarterbacks. At home, her daughter “runs the show,” bringing just as much energy to the family. 

Stable housing changed everything; surviving to thriving can has become possible. “It’s been amazing,” she says. “My kids have structure now. We wake up, do our morning routine, I make breakfast, and get them ready for school.”

Stability also supported her career growth. She is now the Director of Food Services at a senior living facility. “My mom was the director before me,” she says proudly. Cooking from the heart fuels her dream of a food truck and maybe a restaurant someday. “When my boys make it to the NFL,” with a grin, she says, “I’ll have multiple food trucks!”

Her parents and kids keep her grounded and energized. “They push me to keep moving forward,” she says. “They keep a smile on my face all the time.” Her message to others facing hardship: “I would tell them to never give up on themselves. Pray. Believe in yourself. Everything will come together.”

Antionette is proof of that faith and determination.