JULY 24, 2025 - Amy Buchanan and Jannet Richardson hang decorations at their new home in Brevard, N.C. (Photo: WLOS Staff)
BREVARD, N.C. (WLOS) — Two Brevard women who were formerly homeless are finding their way back to a normal and happy life, including housing, one step at a time.
Amy Buchanan and Jannet Richardson have come a long way: Amy loves her job managing and securing sales for the French Broad Stone Yards' Brevard branch, while Jannet thrives in her job as a nurse at Tore's Assisted Living facility.
“I did not know I had this in me,” Amy said of her new chapter unfolding.
“I’ve since become a med tech since I’ve been here at Tore’s,” said Jannet.
“The rent will be 30% of their income,” said Emily Lowery, executive director for The Haven of Transylvania County.
Since 2011, the non-profit has been the community’s lead in helping homeless people. Lowery said that while the county’s unhoused population isn’t as high as Buncombe County’s, many people still need shelter.
“Last year’s point-in-time count showed the county had more than 80 people without homes," she added. "That doesn’t include families."
Lowery, who herself has lived experience without a home, has made it her life’s work to help others close their chapters on homelessness.
Now, a three-bedroom home sits on a quiet block and will serve as housing where Amy, Jannet and a third woman will pay rent and have a safe place to live.
The ladies moving in have worked so hard and come such a long way. I’ll try not to cry. I’m so proud of them," Lowery said.
Lowery and the women have worked to decorate the house for Friday’s open house for supporters and community members, along with board members of the Haven.
“I never thought I would be where I was, but I lost my son,” said Jannet.
Both women say they are grateful for the support, and both are making personal strides and meeting goals that align with Haven’s mission to help those who help themselves.
“We have a scorecard we use to in order to choose the people that come into here,” said Lowery of those accepted in the transition housing.
Each will pay 30% of their monthly income towards rent in the three-bedroom home.
Amy said she raised six children as a stay-at-home mom, but faced domestic violence from her husband. She has a long way and is excited about her future.