At 79 years old, Navy veteran Mer’Curie has weathered more storms than most. Born into a childhood marked by instability and loss, she learned early how to survive — but not always how to heal. Decades later, she’s now finding the support she needs to begin that process.
In 2023, after relocating to Denver from Albuquerque, Mer’Curie moved into Samaritan House Smith Road, operated by Catholic Charities. It was a major transition, and at her age, an uncertain one. But what began as a daunting step into the unknown turned into a path toward restoration and peace.
“I was nervous when I first came,” Mer’Curie said. “I’ve always had a pretty outgoing personality so I had a feeling that would help me, but I didn’t know anyone and I didn’t know what would happen next.”
From the moment she arrived, Mer’Curie was welcomed with compassion. Her assigned case manager immediately began working with her to assess her needs, helping her navigate everything from healthcare access to identifying long-term housing options. Together, they built a personalized housing plan, and with the support of on-site housing specialists, Mer’Curie applied for affordable housing programs and accessed resources available to veterans.
Throughout her time at Samaritan House, Mer’Curie not only worked with her caseworkers to secure permanent housing but also began confronting the pain she had carried for most of her life — from her early years to the more recent grief of losing her daughter. Through counseling and support from the shelter’s trauma-informed care team, she’s begun to untangle the effects of a lifetime of hardship. Mental health staff provided a safe, judgment-free space for her to share her story, and peer support sessions gave her community and encouragement.
“I’ve spent so many years just trying to survive. Now I’m learning how to live and heal.”
Her personal belongings and art collections — spread across storage units — became symbolic of the fragmented pieces of her past. One unit, in particular, held her late daughter’s belongings. When staff learned that the unit was going to be put up for auction due to overdue fees, they acted quickly.
With the help of Catholic Charities Samaritan House caseworkers and an emergency client assistance fund, the auction was stopped in time. The team collaborated across departments to pay the balance and ensure Mer’Curie could preserve what mattered most. It was more than a financial rescue — it was an act of love and respect.
“It was a blessing.”
Now, Mer’Curie is moving into her own house in Park Hill. For the first time in years, she’ll have a space that’s hers — a place where she can unpack not just boxes, but her life. She looks forward to retrieving her belongings from storage, decorating her home, and creating a space of peace and remembrance.
“I’ll have my own keys, my own bed and my own kitchen. I haven’t had that in so long. It feels like I can finally breathe.”
As she settles in, Mer’Curie continues to work through her trauma and build a future grounded in healing and community. Her gratitude for the team at Samaritan House runs deep.
“To everyone at Samaritan House and Catholic Charities — thank you for not giving up on me. You helped me find my way back to myself.”