Rising from Hardship: A Story of Strength and Success

By: Morgan Elizabeth Taylor

Greenville, NC - At Greenville Community Shelter, we witness countless stories of resilience and determination, but few shine as brightly as the journey of one of our former residents. Ti’ana Beale’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and the unwavering belief that change is possible, no matter how tough the circumstances.

For this remarkable woman, homelessness was a turning point, not a dead end. After graduating from Elizabeth City State University in 2010, she found herself navigating life as a single mother. She had an apartment, a job, and a heart that always looked out for others—often at her own expense. Unfortunately, financial struggles and what she coins as “irresponsible decisions” led her to lose her job, and in September 2014, she and her four-year-old son arrived at Greenville Community Shelter with nowhere else to turn.

For six months, she called the shelter home. Her family did what they could, but many of the friends she had once relied on were now here to be found. Faced with this reality, she made a decision: she would change her life.

Her journey wasn’t easy. Having experienced homelessness as a child, she knew the toll it could take. She found work at Walmart, saved diligently, and secured an apartment. Without much assistance from social services due to her single-child status, she managed daycare for her son while working tirelessly. She later joined our housing program, which set her on a path toward greater opportunities. In time, she secured a position as a youth counselor for the state and later transitioned into child protective services—a role that allows her to give back in ways she never imagined.

She defines success not by wealth, but by progress. The moment she paid her rent in full, on time, and still had enough for food and bills, she knew she had made it. No longer trapped in cycles of hardship, she prioritizes her well-being and her son's future above all else.

Success, she says, means never returning to the struggles she fought so hard to overcome. It means setting and achieving small goals that lead to even greater ones. Today, she is pursuing her master’s degree—a testament to her dedication to growth.

Her message to those walking a similar path is clear: Change is never easy. People may doubt you, call you different, or even try to hold you back. Ignore the negativity and focus on what truly matters.

And on days when motivation runs low, she finds strength in returning to Greenville Community Shelter. Helping current residents, sharing her story, and remembering her own struggles fuel her determination to keep moving forward.

Her journey is proof that no situation is permanent. With courage, perseverance, and the support of a community that believes in second chances, anything is possible and we salute her.

**Join Us in Making a Difference**

Greenville Community Shelter exists to support individuals like Ti’auna on their journey to stability and success. Your generosity provides shelter, resources, and hope to those in need. Consider making a donation today—because every contribution helps change lives.

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