Homelessness is a harsh and often invisible reality that many young people face. In Detroit, Shawnee Morton’s story is a testament to the transformative power of support and resilience. At 21 years old, Shawnee was homeless, caught in a cycle of abuse and despair. However, through her encounter with Covenant House, a nonprofit organization that helps homeless youth, Shawnee found hope and a way out of her dire situation.
A Life of Abuse and Despair
Shawnee’s story began in a home where she felt trapped by her circumstances. She had a job, a car, and a place to live, but the sudden death of her brother sent her spiraling into emotional turmoil. Seeking solace, she ended up in a relationship with an abusive boyfriend. This toxic relationship soon became even more destructive when Shawnee found herself physically, mentally, and sexually abused by a family member, further compounding her feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
Living in a dilapidated house with no electricity, water, or basic comforts, Shawnee’s life was marked by constant fear. She was living in an environment where not only was she suffering abuse, but also lacking the fundamental necessities of life. Shawnee’s story is heartbreaking—being trapped in a place of neglect, both physical and emotional, with no clear path to escape.
A Moment of Crisis
It was during this dark period that Shawnee’s life would take a pivotal turn. At one point, she found herself sitting in a church, in tears, utterly overwhelmed. In that moment, a stranger came to her—a woman from Covenant House. The simple act of offering Shawnee a hug was all it took to spark a glimmer of hope in her. The woman from Covenant House invited Shawnee to the shelter, offering her the first real opportunity to escape the nightmare she was living.
A New Beginning at Covenant House
Shawnee’s experience at Covenant House was nothing short of life-changing. When she arrived, she felt like a lost soul, unsure of her worth. She described feeling like “nobody,” as if she didn’t belong anywhere. But Covenant House was not just a roof over her head; it provided her with counseling, basic necessities like food and clothing, and a sense of safety she had not experienced in years. Shawnee, deeply depressed and feeling abandoned by everyone, began to rebuild her life one step at a time.
The support she received went beyond mere survival. At Covenant House, Shawnee was introduced to counseling services that helped her deal with the trauma she had endured. She began to regain confidence, understanding that her past did not define her future. The staff at Covenant House worked tirelessly to help her trust again, and through their efforts, Shawnee began to see a future where she could thrive.
Rebuilding a Future
Covenant House’s programs, designed to build life skills and promote independence, helped Shawnee gain practical skills that would support her in the long term. Life skills classes taught her how to grocery shop, manage money, and navigate job interviews. She started to feel human again, learning not just to survive, but to live with dignity. One of her major accomplishments was earning her GED, which opened the door for her to pursue a career in nursing.
At 37, Shawnee’s life is vastly different. She is now working in the mental health field, a career that aligns with her desire to help others. She’s also an active volunteer at Covenant House, giving back to the very organization that helped her turn her life around. Shawnee’s success is a testament to the effectiveness of Covenant House’s approach, which goes beyond immediate relief to provide the tools for lasting change.
The Covenant House Sleep Out: Raising Awareness for Youth Homelessness
Shawnee’s story of resilience and recovery is not unique, but it is certainly inspiring. Covenant House’s efforts to end youth homelessness extend beyond the immediate needs of young people in crisis. The organization regularly organizes events like the Sleep Out, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about youth homelessness. During the Sleep Out, participants spend the night outdoors, simulating the experience of homelessness to raise funds and draw attention to the struggles of young people like Shawnee.
Eric Erickson, a participant in this year’s Sleep Out, shared his experience of connecting with the young people staying at Covenant House. He explained that spending time with the youth, listening to their stories, and offering advice or simply being present, helps build solidarity and create a sense of community. The Sleep Out is a powerful reminder that while we may not be able to change the circumstances of homelessness overnight, small acts of kindness and support can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
The Continuing Impact of Covenant House
Today, Shawnee is one of the many success stories that Covenant House celebrates. She not only overcame the trauma of homelessness but is now actively helping others who are in the same situation she once was. Covenant House provides more than just food, shelter, and clothing—it gives young people a chance at a better life by fostering independence, rebuilding confidence, and restoring hope.
Shawnee’s journey reflects the power of support, perseverance, and community. She found her way out of homelessness not just through the shelter and services that Covenant House offered but through the emotional and psychological healing that allowed her to believe in herself again. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for all young people struggling with homelessness, reminding us that no one should have to face these challenges alone.
