Natalie Morales and her 5-year-old daughter Hailey have found a new home at the St. Matthews House Women and Children Shelter in Fort Myers after facing something they never would have thought of homelessness.
"We did have our own home a couple of months ago, but due to me losing my job, I couldn't afford $1,200 rent anymore," said Morales.
Morales shared that it was a difficult and depressing time for her and her daughter. At one point, the two resorted to couch surfing; they were in desperate need of help.
"It was very depressing," she said. "It was hard, but as soon as St. Matthews called us, something just lit up in me. And I came here and I felt safe and at home."
Morales said she felt hope, like things would get a lot better for her and her daughter. That the St. Matthews House shelter welcomed the two with open arms 30 days ago, and Morales has not looked back since.
"It's like we're family here," said Morales.
The shelter, which opened in December 2024, has since served 47 moms, 96 kids, and 145 women. In total, 288 people have found refuge at the shelter.
Courtney Sanders, program manager at the Fort Myers St. Matthews House Women and Children Center, said the shelter currently has 11 moms and 14 kids living there—over 50 people in total.
Credit: Natalie Morales
"We are at full capacity right now," Sanders said. "Pretty much since we opened, we've remained full. The minute someone leaves, we have someone waiting to come in."
Currently, more than 170 women and children are on the waiting list for the shelter.
The need for support is significant, with the Florida Department of Children and Families reporting734 people are homeless in Lee County this year, so far, and more than 28,000 across the state.
For Morales and Hailey, finding a home at the shelter has been a beacon of hope.
"Don't give up," said Morales. "Don't give up hope. Pray, because that man above does hear. And he sees, and he will change your life."
St. Matthew's House continues to provide a safe haven for those in need, offering hope and a sense of family to those who have faced homelessness, hunger, or addiction. For ways to help the organization continue its mission, visit Ways To Support - St. Matthew's House.