A Detroit mother who lost two of her five children after the family was forced to sleep in a freezing van earlier this month has been given a new home, offering her a fresh start just days after burying her son and daughter.
Tateona Williams, who had been living in a van with her children due to homelessness, was presented with the keys to her new home by Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) and the city of Detroit.
A video released by the city and DRMM shows Williams receiving the home, which has been fully furnished and stocked with food.
“We had to fix it, prep it, furnish it, and then give them a good start so they don’t have to go one day with no food or being outside anymore,” said Chad Audi, CEO and president of DRMM, in a statement.
The organization, which assists disadvantaged residents with finding permanent housing, confirmed that Williams’ new home has been freshly painted and furnished with new appliances. She will now be able to live there 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.”
DRMM has committed to conducting regular check-ins and inspections to ensure Williams receives ongoing support. The organization stated that it would work with her to develop a long-term housing plan before the end of the year.
While the home is designated solely for Williams and her children, she must transfer utilities into her name within three months. DRMM noted that they will step in to assist if needed but expect responsibility and accountability as she works toward independence.
Williams’ tragedy gained national attention after her children, Amillah Currie, 2, and Darnell Currie, 9, died on Feb. 10 when the van they were living in apparently ran out of gas. Williams discovered them unresponsive and called for help, but it was too late.
At the time, temperatures in Detroit had plummeted to 12 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills reaching 6 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison said the family had parked on the ninth floor of Hollywood Casino’s parking garage, likely seeking shelter and access to restrooms. The family had reportedly moved between various casino parking lots in search of safety.
The children’s deaths have raised serious concerns about systemic failures in aiding homeless families. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan ordered a review of the city’s homeless assistance programs, acknowledging that Williams had reached out for help as early as November 25 but did not receive the support she needed. The family had also previously sought assistance in the summer and the previous year.
The city of Detroit expressed its condolences and pledged continued support for Williams and her 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 stated on social media. “Detroit, let us unite in support.”
