A Fresh Start: How One Family Found Hope and a New Home
When Michael Rolsal and Brittany Burden left Delaware after nearly a decade, they were searching for a fresh start and a better future for their family.
With their three children—ages 8, 3, and 1—the couple moved to Raleigh hoping to build a new life. After spending about a week in a hotel, their savings ran out. Brittany had left her job, and the family found themselves facing an uncertain next step.
“We were looking for a family shelter,” Brittany shared. “We went to Oak City Cares, and they told us about The Salvation Army.”
The family arrived at The Salvation Army Center of Hope, where they found more than a place to stay. They found a team ready to walk alongside them as they worked toward stability.
Finding Support and a Path Forward
Brittany was familiar with shelter life. As a teenager, she and her mother and younger sister stayed at a shelter in Maryland. But this time was different. She was navigating the experience as a mother, determined to create a better future for her own children.
At the Center of Hope, Michael and Brittany connected with staff members who helped them identify resources and create a plan toward permanent housing.
The couple worked closely with Cathy Hood-Pittenger, a housing specialist, and Ashley Pike, a benefits specialist, who helped them navigate the steps needed to move forward.
“Cathy is so amazing,” Brittany said. “She found us a three-bedroom apartment. She asked all the questions as if she was moving in herself to make sure we had everything we needed. She dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s.”
With guidance and support from The Salvation Army, the family secured housing and received assistance with their security deposit. Brittany also found employment with a catering company, while Michael began searching for warehouse opportunities.
Building Stability One Step at a Time
For the family, finding an apartment was a major milestone but maintaining it is the next goal.
“Getting the place was easy,” Michael said. “Now we just want to be sure we can afford it and maintain our expenses.”
Finding work and childcare has been one of the biggest challenges.
“Both of us have to work to qualify for daycare,” Michael explained. “How can I look for a job if I’m watching the kids?”
Despite the challenges, the couple remains focused. They understand that rebuilding takes determination, patience, and support.
“The shelter staff keeps you focused and on task,” Michael said. “You can’t get too comfortable and lose sight of your goals.”
He encourages others facing similar circumstances to stay motivated.
“Stay focused,” Michael added. “Find someone who is also trying to get back on their feet and encourage one another.”
Creating a New Home and New Opportunities
Today, Michael and Brittany are looking ahead not just to having a place to live, but to creating a home where their children can grow and thrive.
“We are making a new home and trying to raise our family the right way and create new opportunities for them,” Michael shared.
The family is excited about the simple moments that come with having their own space again, especially family meals together.
“We have recipes saved up,” Brittany said. “We are looking forward to some home-cooked meals in our new apartment.”
Through vouchers from The Salvation Army’s Family Thrift Store, the family will also receive assistance furnishing their new home and making it truly theirs.
Michael and Brittany’s journey is a reminder that a fresh start often begins with a helping hand, a supportive community, and the determination to keep moving forward.
At The Salvation Army Center of Hope, families like theirs receive the resources, encouragement, and the opportunity to build a stronger future.