What is your life like now?

Life has been so good. We’re still in the same apartment for 6 years now. I’ve been at my job for 7 years. My kids have grown up with me being able to tend to their needs.

What do you remember about your time at COTS?

I truly enjoyed being at COTS. It was safe and provided the stability we needed.

What did it take to get back on your feet?

Getting clean and sober at a rehab. Working an honest program and taking care of all my responsibilities. The staff at rehab and the shelters we lived at were great for any help I needed.

What advice and encouragement can you offer COTS clients?

Follow the rules. Go to the classes. Listen and take the advice given to you.

What do you know now that you wish you'd known while you were experiencing homelessness?

A clean and sober life out of depression is so worth all the work it takes to be able to rely on yourself to get anything done.