Krystaly

Krystaly grew up in a family that experienced housing instability: her mom was raising Krystaly on her own and they were often in and out of shelter. Krystaly found it difficult to express herself and often clashed with her mother. Given their strained relationship, Krystaly chose to leave her home.

Krystaly lived in multiple states and shelters until she reconnected with a friend, and they moved in with a family friend near Harlem. Living conditions there were terrible and they began to fend for themselves – finding help at a local church who then referred them to Streetwork Project – just across the street.

Streetwork became her refuge while she struggled with an abusive relationship and encounters with law enforcement. It was the one place she could count on for stability, warmth, and a supportive community in the midst of chaos. She never missed a day and learned how to heal and address her mental health. Being able to find a supportive environment, Krystaly began to heal her relationship with her mother. She moved back into her mom’s apartment, where she lives today. Through her healed relationship, her mom’s apartment became the place that most represented home to Krystaly, a place she could go when the outside world became too rough.