Vanessa Justus is a mom and grandmother from Hurley, Virginia, who has not always had an easy life. She got out of an abusive relationship years ago and has struggled with anxiety since then. In addition to this, Vanessa faces some debilitating health issues and at times is in so much pain that she is unable to walk. She was living in a rural area, feeling isolated and without public transit available, when she decided it was time for a change.  

Vanessa moved to Washington County six years ago without knowing anyone, but she immediately knew it was the right place for her. She felt she had more opportunities for transportation, shopping, and was closer to her doctors. Most of all, she loved the tight-knit community feel that the town offered. 

When she first moved to Washington County, Vanessa was living in an older trailer that wasn’t warm in the winter. When she heard that the Sweetbriar II affordable housing property was under construction, she knew that’s where she wanted to be. “I had driven by a couple of times and was like, ‘that’s what I want, that community’,” said Vanessa. She placed her name on the waitlist and was one of the first residents to move into the new units in April of 2023.  

Since moving into the new complex, Vanessa’s life has changed for the better. She and her grandchildren enjoy having more space and the surrounding houses and neighborhood offer the community feel that Vanessa was longing for. “I’ve always yearned for a home,” said Vanessa. “From the moment I stepped foot here, even before I got furniture, it’s felt like home. It’s really peaceful.” 

Vanessa has been enjoying utilizing nearby public transit when her health issues don’t allow her to drive, having easy access to grocery shopping and town events, and the beautiful new complex that she now gets to call home. “I’m really grateful for the program that helped me and is helping others,” said Vanessa. “I was searching for a while to find a place that was available, that I could afford, that was nice, that was comfortable.” 

The help from People Incorporated didn’t stop with Vanessa’s new home. She also utilized the agency’s personal loan program to purchase a vehicle, which was a big goal of hers upon moving to Abingdon. 

Vanessa is enjoying the peace she’s found in her move and looks forward to continuing to participate in community clubs and activities as a resident of the town. “At this age I just want to be at peace as much as possible,” said Vanessa.