Meet Steve! Steve is July's Monthly Client Feature at the Samaritan Center!
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Steve was laid off from his company after working there for over 27 years. Unfortunately, not long after his loss of employment, Steve's wife had passed away which then led to his struggle with sobriety and homelessness and he began living out of his vehicle.
While temporarily living at a sober house, he heard about the Samaritan Center when other house members came to speak about resources offered in the community. Steve mentioned while living at a sober house, a Key Counselor, who he looked up to, passed away from a drug overdose. This added loss deeply affected Steve. He then decided that he wanted to direct his career in helping others and becoming a Sober Coach.
After leaving the sober living house and achieving sobriety, Steve began living out of his vehicle once again. He connected with the Samaritan Center where he was able to shower, receive hot meals, visit the Food Pantry, and meet with a caseworker. Steve noted that his caseworker, Miguel, was able to assist in medical resources and refill his necessary prescriptions vital to his health. Steve stated that he feels all the staff members at the Center validate the feelings and struggles one may encounter and truly listens to one's needs.
Steve mentioned that the resources offered at the Samaritan Center are necessary to survival while experiencing homelessness. He expressed the importance of having a platform to offer tools to those in need. Steve hopes to advocate for those struggling and he believes everyone has the ability to change for the better.
Recently, Steve accepted a position as a Sober Coach at a local organization and he got his CPR Certification. He is now working towards a RADT (Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician) Certification. Most notably, soon after accepting his position he was able to find housing! We are so excited for this new chapter in Steve's journey. Thank you for sharing your story, Steve!
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