God, Gratitude, and a Home: Janet’s Story
Janet’s journey to finding a safe and stable home is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and perseverance. Life has tested her in unimaginable ways, from a devastating accident that changed her forever, to the daunting challenge of homelessness. Yet, through it all, Janet’s unwavering spirit, faith, along with her connection with Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter have brought her to a place of healing and hope. Today, she lives in permanent supportive housing, reflecting on the challenges she has overcome and the community that helped her rebuild her life.
Twelve and a half years ago, Janet experienced a devastating car accident that left her submerged underwater for 20 minutes. She was in a coma for 19 days, and doctors believed she wouldn’t survive.
“They thought I was dead. She says, “So they turned the respirator off. And then I woke up.” 
Remarkably, she defied the odds, waking up and beginning the long road to recovery. Since then, she has undergone numerous surgeries—four on her back, three on her neck, a total knee replacement, and others on her hip, hand, and eye—while also relearning how to speak and navigate daily life. Despite these challenges, Janet’s determination and faith have kept her moving forward.
“I go to AA twice a week. It’s my family,” Janet shares, highlighting how her connection to Alcoholics Anonymous has been a vital source of support. She has been attending meetings regularly for 30 years, has been sober for 19 years, and has not abused prescription medication for over 12 years. She credits her strength and sobriety to her relationship with God, which she says has given her the resilience to overcome life’s hardships.
“I was trying to get sober for a long time before I had God, and I couldn’t do it. But once I got God, God kept me clean and sober. My strength comes from God.”
Before her accident, Janet lived a different life. With a business marketing degree, she worked in Silicon Valley and later as a realtor in La Jolla, earning a comfortable living. She grew up in a wealthy family, her father a successful executive at General Electric. However, after her accident and subsequent traumatic brain injury, Janet’s life changed dramatically. Unable to work, she relied on disability payments, which were insufficient to maintain her previous standard of living.
For many years, Janet lived in a one-bedroom apartment in Yuba City. She loved her home, especially the field behind it where her beloved cat, Baby, could roam. But when her mother, who had been helping pay Janet’s rent, passed away, Janet found herself unable to keep up with the costs. She was evicted, and with nowhere else to go, she found herself staying at the Life Building Center in Marysville, a coordinated entry site for homeless in the area, operated in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter and Hands of Hope. The Life Building Center offers many programs that help provide self-sufficiency, as well as a 25-bed shelter. It was there that she was able to connect with Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter.
“It was a blessing,” Janet says of her time at the Life Building Center, noting that it provided her with the support she needed during a critical period. While there, she worked with Hands of Hope staff to find a new place to live. After a thorough application process, Janet was offered an affordable housing unit at Prosperity Village, Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter’s supportive housing complex located in Marysville, where she has lived for the past three months.
Prosperity Village offers 61 units to low-income individuals, with priority housing given to seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans. The complex provides a safe and supportive environment where residents can focus on rebuilding their lives.
“The people here are just so wonderful,” Janet says of her new community. “All the workers and the people that live here are really friendly and nice.” She also appreciates the efforts that go into hosting events for residents, such as worship nights, Taco Tuesdays, and other community meals. These gatherings foster a sense of connection and belonging, which Janet deeply values.
Adjusting to her new home has been a positive experience for Janet, though she admits she spends most of her time in her room, enjoying the company of Baby. Her loyal companion has also adapted well to the new environment. Now, Baby accompanies her on walks every morning with his bright orange halter and leash.
Reflecting on her journey, Janet emphasizes the importance of seeking help and having faith. “God can take you through anything,” she says. Her advice to others facing homelessness is simple, “Call Habitat, because they will help you,” she emphasizes.
Today, Janet feels a renewed sense of stability and gratitude. Her affordable housing at Prosperity Village has given her a safe, comfortable place to heal and rebuild her life. “I feel so grateful to have a home,” she shares. Janet’s story is a powerful reminder of how Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter transforms lives, offering not just housing, but hope.
As Janet looks to the future, she remains grounded in her faith and focused on living each day with gratitude. Her story is an inspiration to all, demonstrating the strength of the human spirit and the impact of a compassionate community. As Janet says, “God can take you through anything.”
