A Detroit mother of five has received a new home after two of her children died from possible cold exposure while the family was living in a van. The tragic deaths occurred earlier this month, and the family’s story has drawn attention to the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
Tateona Williams was handed the keys to her new home in a video shared by the city of Detroit and Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries. Williams had lost her son and daughter, Amillah Currie, 2, and Darnell Currie, 9, after the van they were living in ran out of gas during freezing temperatures on February 10.
Chad Audi, CEO of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, emphasized that the organization’s goal was not just to provide housing, but also to offer hope. The home, freshly painted and furnished with new appliances, is now a place where Williams can live with her two surviving children.
“We didn’t just offer her a house — we provided her with hope,” Audi said. “We took her to her new home, where she and her children could finally breathe, sleep, and heal without fear.”
The organization plans to regularly check in with Williams and will work with her to create a long-term housing plan. The home is strictly for Williams and her children, and she is required to transfer the utilities into her name within three months.
Williams had parked the van on the ninth floor of the Hollywood Casino parking garage, where the family had sought shelter. Williams found the children unresponsive after the van ran out of gas. The temperature that morning was about 12 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills near 6 degrees.
The deaths have sparked discussions about gaps in the system for helping those facing homelessness. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan called for a review of the family’s request for help after Williams had reached out to a homeless response team in November. Unfortunately, no resolution was reached during that conversation, and an outreach worker did not visit the family.
The city of Detroit expressed its condolences and commitment to supporting the family. “While nothing can truly ease their loss, the gift of a new home represents a pivotal step forward for both their family and community,” the city said in a Facebook post.
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