Taking the Steps to Build a New Life

After 34 years of marriage, Tammie made the decision to move herself and her children out of a dangerous living situation and start fresh. She was unemployed at the time and knew she had a challenging road ahead but felt motivated by her desire to be a positive example for her four daughters.

Tammie began to build a new life for herself at one of Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s public housing properties – her first apartment of her own. She said she loved coming home to a clean, peaceful space where she knew she could do things her own way, without walking on eggshells.

Utilizing AHFC’s Step program, ​​which provides eligible families with up to five years of gradually decreasing rental assistance as they work toward financial independence, Tammie began to increase in confidence as she took steps to create her new future. 

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“I had been married for so long and I never thought that I could get a job or my own place – it was scary. But to have support behind you gives you confidence.” - Tammie, Public Housing Resident

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Tammie began working as a substitute teacher and said she fell in love with it. Her experience even inspired her to pursue additional education and look into working in a school full time. With work experience and new possibilities for a career, Tammie said she felt confident she would be able to pay her portion of the rent as it increased throughout the program.

“The point is to allow me to get stable and have this history of renting, then I can find my own place without help,” she explained. “It feels good to know that somebody believes in me. The support is astronomical.”

Knowing that assistance is available, Tammie urged other people in dangerous situations to have the confidence to leave.

“Even if you have to work two or three jobs for a time, you can do it,” she said. “I know it’s scary and sometimes lonely but there are people out there willing to help you that actually really care.”

While she still has work ahead of her to build the independent, stable financial future she knows is within reach, Tammie is embracing the process.

“My daughters always say ‘you can do it mom!’  To be in the middle of doing it is important. It’s a good example for them."

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We recognize that Tammie's story is exceptional and some Alaskans may be in need of safe, quality, affordable housing. If you require housing resources, we encourage you to contact Alaska 2-1-1. This free, confidential resource can help you to locate housing assistance and other resources in your home community. Dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-478-2221 or visit alaska211.org.

The Alaska Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault maintains a list of service providers and emergency shelters across Alaska.

AHFC’s Public Housing maintains waitlists statewide. See openings in your community.