- April 25, 2024
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Standing in an almost-empty house in the W-section on Sunday, Earl and Beverly Robinson were finishing up signing the papers that would finalize the lease on their new rental home.
Just three weeks ago, the Robinsons were homeless. They were commuting back and forth to Hastings to stay with family. But on Sunday, they were able to stay under their own roof. It was a Christmas miracle on White Dove Lane.
How it happened
Through a federal grant, Flagler County Human Services helps homeless or distressed families.
The Robinsons were referred to Janet Nickels, program manager for Flagler County Human Services, through the School Board and the Northeast Florida Community Action Agency.
The county and the NFCAA determined the Robinsons qualified for help. And so, the Robinsons and Nickels met many times over the next few weeks. Eventually, the two sides reached an agreement with a landlord who agreed to reduce the rent on a White Dove Lane home. In addition, the county will use grant money to help the family pay for utilities and other expenses.
“It’s about giving them support services, and that’s what makes the biggest difference in preventing homelessness,” Nickels said Sunday afternoon, about 15 minutes after the Robinsons were given the keys to their new home. The ink on the paperwork was still fresh.
But the good news continues for the Robinsons: The NFCAA has agreed to help pay for Beverly Robinson’s school as she hopes to become a certified nursing assistant.
“This program allows families to overcome their obstacles,” Nickels said. “Otherwise, they might not be able to reach their dreams.”
Beverly Robinson said Nickels was persistent throughout the process. More importantly, she said, Nickels listened.
“A lot of people hear you, but they don’t listen,” Beverly Robinson said. “And that’s what made her stand out the most to us: She listened to all of it.”
For the first time in months, Beverly Robinson could relax.
“It’s a big, long deep breath and sigh of relief,” she said. “We don’t have to cry anymore.”
One Christmas tree and a whole lot of smiles
The papers were signed. Tiani, 12, and Tierria, 11, draped garland around the Christmas tree that was donated by Mhonterrio’s football coach, Curt Schalit, and his wife, Maria.
In the other corner of the room, wrapped gifts were piled up, waiting to be opened. (Those were donated, too.)
Mhonterrio, 15, rolled around on his stomach on a skateboard in his own bedroom.
Hanging from the family room fan was a white dove, as you might expect on White Dove Lane.
Beverly Robinson walked through the home. She pointed to her large, walk-in closet, which she plans to use for her clothes. She still hasn’t decided where her husband will put his. She strolled through the kitchen, where she said the family will be able to eat dinners together. In the laundry room, she pointed out the washer and dryer, which she will use to finally be able to wash her family’s clothes.
She and her family have been through a lot since October, but she said she’s now prepared to help someone facing similar obstacles who might come to her for help.
Along the way, Earl and Beverly Robinson have learned many lessons. Their three children did, too.
“One thing I have said is, despite all we have been through, (our children) have said more inspiring words to us than I think we have said to them,” Beverly Robinson said. “It gave me the knowledge that when we’re talking and discussing life, they are listening. They don’t give up on anything.”
The Robinsons said they have seen improvements in their childrens’ academics.
“When it first started, you could see a decrease in attitude and grades,” Beverly Robinson said. “And now, having talked them through this process and through this situation and letting them understand this is life and everything doesn’t happen the way you expect it to happen, they have overcome a lot of obstacles. We’re very proud of them.”
And standing in the garage, where she will park her car, Beverly Robinson looked up.
Her family moved into their very own house just days before Christmas, something she thought was nearly impossible a mere three weeks prior.
“Everything in life is not easy,” Beverly Robinson said. “It’s a miracle.”
For a previous story on the Robinsons, "Faith, family football: At home on the football field," click HERE.
