Since 1883, The YWCA of the Greater Capital Region has provided safe and supportive housing for women in times of crisis. The organization recently unveiled plans to bring much-needed, supportive housing to downtown Troy. 

A good book is how Lawana Campbell likes to end her day. She currently lives in housing provided by the YWCA, but it's not just a roof over her head, it's home. 

A lot of people do benefit from this place big time. And it's one of the great things about this place because they give so much.

Before the YWCA… Lawana suffered from a bad knee injury. Despite the pain, she continued to go to work every day.

"I didn’t care how cold or rain or snowy or icy ever it was," Campbell said. "I went to work on crutches, a cane, anything you can imagine. I went to work."

But between piling medical bills and rising food costs, she fell behind on her rent and was evicted from her apartment. That’s when YWCA became her sanctuary.

"Had it not been for the YWCA, I think I would be in a room somewhere with nobody has acknowledged me," she said.

The organization supports women with shelter, food, clothing, help with addiction, victim advocacy and job-related resources.

"I would be living my life on a daily basis, you know, whether it be struggling or not, it's just be more stripped, you know, with nobody to hold my hand or nobody to give you a hug or say, I'm sorry or you got this, we can do this together," Campbell said.

The YWCA has enough supportive housing for 104 women and more than 50 children. But with a growing demand, the organization is looking to expand its reach with plans for a new five-story, 53-unit building right next door. 

It's important for us to expand because when you know that there's over 300 people on your waiting list, the need is there," said Starletta Smith, executive director of the YWCA. 

YWCA Director Starletta Smith has seen the difference it has made. She’s been with the organization for 15 years.

Starletta says the YWCA is fresh start. Some women stay for a few weeks, others a little longer.

Campbell has been there seven years, and though she's looking forward to a new chapter, this will always be home. 

“My next step is to be on my home, traveling and enjoying life,” Campbell said.