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Eileen Zilch

Bethel Suites Success Story: Meet Elayne



At Community Catalysts, we believe in celebrating EVERY SINGLE victory...especially the ones that shine a light on the perseverance of the human spirit.


Elayne's journey is one of resilience, strength, and the unyielding belief that better days are always ahead, even in the darkest of times.


In August 2023, after fleeing a domestic violence situation that left her upended, she found refuge at Bethel Suites. The toll of her experience was heavy, compounded by the uncertainty of not having a permanent home.


The stress weighed so intensely on her that she suffered a heart attack during her stay. But even in the face of this daunting obstacle, Elayne’s spirit remained unbroken.


With the help of Ascension Hospital social workers, she connected with OLHSA and other local agencies, determined to secure a safe, stable home. There were days when the road seemed impossibly long. Elayne faced numerous health setbacks along the way, yet she never lost sight of her goal.


Even after being approved for a housing voucher, the challenge of finding an available unit within her time limit seemed overwhelming.


But Elayne’s strength was met with kindness. A member of Community Bible Church’s BBQ ministry heard of her struggles and came alongside her to share an open door—a senior apartment complex with a waiting list—and Elayne applied. Weeks later, her perseverance paid off: Elayne was accepted.


In September 2024, with the keys to her new home in hand, Elayne crossed the threshold into a new chapter of her life. Her journey wasn’t just about finding housing; it was about reclaiming her dignity, health, and peace. Elayne’s story is a powerful reminder that, no matter how difficult the path, there is always hope.


Thank you, Elayne, for allowing us to share your journey. And thank you to Ascension Hospital, OLHSA, Community Bible Church and our other community partners for loving and serving our guests so well!


When asked about her journey, Elayne had this to say:


"You’ve already made the first choice to leave your old life—now comes the hard part of building a new one.


At Bethel Suites, you’ll find friendship, knowledge, and resources to help guide you. Remember why you came here: to get support and grow. Take in all the tools available to become stronger, understand yourself better, and use that growth to help yourself and others.


Look around, listen, and learn—there are people ready to help. This is a new chapter. Don’t hesitate. Procrastination will be your biggest obstacle."


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Do you or someone you know need temporary housing while transitioning? Reach out to Jenny at Bethel Suites begin a conversation.

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