After overcoming childhood homelessness in New York City, the Lawrence sisters are now studying together to become nurses
NEW YORK (WABC) – Six sisters from Queens who overcame childhood homelessness are now studying to become nurses.
The Lawrence sisters are all working toward getting their master’s degrees at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn.
“When she got to college she wanted to be a writer and an artist. She wanted to be a fashion designer. We all had different interests,” said Alecsandria Lawrence.
Instead, each sibling discovered a passion for helping others, and they all say it’s because of what they’ve been through.
Ten years ago, her family built a life in a multigenerational home in Rosedale, Queens, until they lost it to other relatives.
“At the same time, I think I have to do my schoolwork in a cardboard box or something,” Danielle Lawrence said.
The sisters say they leaned on each other to get through such a difficult situation.
“When we were going through that and going to school, I really felt like I wasn’t going to make it. “I’m not doing so well in school, but thank God I have my sisters and my family to keep me going,” said Gabriella Lawrence.
They say that at one point the family had to live in completely dilapidated, rodent-infested houses in exchange for cleaning the properties. Back then it was the only way to have a roof over your head.
“This isn’t your general mess, this is like a condemned house. It was like a basement, disgusting. Back yard, dumpster. It was bad,” said Alecsandria.
The sisters say they are excited about what’s to come and hope their story can give hope to others.
“I am not ashamed of this situation. I feel like it needs to be told,” said Dominique Lawrence.
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