Beyond Housing: The Importance of Dignity and Support for Women
When Maria arrived at Bell Family Shelter in February 2026, she was searching for stability and a fresh start. With the guidance of the Shelter’s Mental Health Case Manager, Nnebuwhe (Nnebu) Ochiobi, Maria began taking important steps toward rebuilding her future.
“While at Bell Family Shelter, Maria obtained employment and has subsequently obtained permanent housing,” Nnebu shared.’
Thanks to a grant from WellSpan Health, Maria also received financial assistance to use toward her rental deposit, removing one of the many barriers individuals often face when transitioning into permanent housing.
But Nnebu knew that true support goes beyond housing and employment. During their conversations, Maria opened up about another challenge many women quietly experience.
“While at the shelter, Maria expressed her discomfort of not being able to purchase properly-fitting uplifting bras due to the high price,” Nnebu explained.
Determined to help, Nnebu reached out to Averie Clark in Bell’s Community Engagement office to see if any resources were available. Coincidentally, a gift of support came in for Bell’s Support the Girls fund only days after that call. (A young woman chose to support the fund with donations from a service component of her bat mitzvah.)
“Averie later responded with information regarding Bell’s Support the Girls fund to address this concern,” Nnebu said. “I reached out to Maria to relay the news and set a date for shopping.”
Soon, Donna Aubel (Administrative Assistant at the Shelter) and Nnebu Maria shopping at Boscov’s, where Maria was able to choose several well-fitting foundation garments to boost her confidence.
What may seem like a small necessity to some became a deeply meaningful experience for Maria.
“Maria was so happy and thankful to Bell,” Nnebu shared.
Bell’s Support the Girls campaign provides women in our programs with essential items that are often overlooked but have a powerful impact on confidence, dignity, and self-esteem. Proper support helps us stand taller, physically and emotionally, yet for many, these items are unaffordable.
Through donations from compassionate community members, Bell can continue lifting up women, helping them feel empowered, supported, and seen.
Sometimes the smallest acts of care create the biggest impact.
Confidence starts with having the essentials. Thanks to assistance from the Support the Girls Fund, Maria was able to enjoy a shopping trip and select items that support her journey forward.