Tiffany’s Journey
Tiffany, a fairly new guest at Utah’s Place, never thought she would face homelessness. Like so many others, her story starts with a bright future that turns dark after she faces unimaginable challenges.
After graduating from college with degrees in English and Sociology, Tiffany moved into an apartment with help from her mother while she looked for work. Then, suddenly, her mom passed away, and everything changed. To help pay the bills, Tiffany’s boyfriend moved in, but the relationship quickly turned abusive. After a particularly intense argument, Tiffany rented a motel room for a night to clear her head and get some space. When her boyfriend drove away after dropping her off, Tiffany knew right then and there, she would never go back.
With only an overnight bag, she bravely fled the toxic relationship. She was staying in motels, but that was getting very expensive. One night, someone broke into her motel room and stole her phone, wallet, and ID. In the blink of an eye, Tiffany found herself with no access to her money and no place to go. Tiffany was forced to sleep on the streets until she could replace her identification and bank card.
When Tiffany could access her money again, she started thinking strategically. She knew that if she stayed in motels, her money would run out quickly. With the limited funds she had left, she purchased a cheap car so she would have a safe place to rest. However, the car broke down after a short time, leaving Tiffany once again without a safe place to sleep.
Tiffany felt vulnerable and alone. People she believed were her friends took advantage of her, and she struggled both physically and mentally. She didn’t know what to do. Eventually, Tiffany called 211, and she was referred to Hospitality House. That’s when her life began to turn around.
Everything changed for Tiffany when she arrived at Utah’s Place. Having a bed, a shower, and food daily meant everything to her. The dependable routine helped her stabilize and allowed her to start rebuilding. Access to books, games, and a laptop helped her stay positive mentally and allowed her to search for a job.
She especially credits Hospitality House’s staff for their support. “They really care and don’t give up on you,” she shared. “They’re always there with tools to help me achieve whatever goal I am working on.”
Tiffany recently secured a new job tutoring adults with disabilities, a role that aligns with her passion for helping others. She’s now looking forward to being in her own apartment, where she can focus on writing again, which is one of her passions.
When asked what keeps her going, she quoted her mother: “Just keep going. When things get tough, you just keep going.” Tiffany believes we all have a spark of light inside us, that we can rely on when things get dark.
When she first arrived, Tiffany was quiet and withdrawn—her posture guarded. Tiffany’s transformation continues to inspire those around her. She has grown from a guarded, distrusting individual into someone filled with hope and determination. Her journey is proof of what’s possible when people receive the support they need. Though she is still working toward permanent housing, she takes steps forward every day.
You can help people like Tiffany regain stability and hope by donating to Hospitality House. Your donation will help provide critical services—including shelter, nutritional meals, case management, transportation, and emotional support—to those working to turn their lives around.
By donating today, your impact can go even further. During our May Match Challenge, all donations made by May 31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar. This means twice the support for people like Tiffany, and twice the chance to help someone find a home of their own.
To donate, CLICK HERE.