In August of 2020, Eric found himself checking into Our House’s housing programs for the third time, but this time, he was determined to get it right. Because of his age and health issues, Eric had difficulties finding and keeping jobs in the past, and when a car wreck left him in the crisis stabilization unit, his situation worsened. Eric arrived back in our Shelter after losing his job during his weeks of recovery, and he was diagnosed with diabetes within a month of living here.
It was then that Eric decided he would put in the work to not only lose weight, but also to make this time at Our House successful. In the past, Eric did not take advantage of the services available to him, nor did he have the right mindset. Eric was able to implement this new outlook by quickly turning his health around with the help of our weekly ARcare health clinic on campus. ARcare really listened to Eric’s concerns and helped him get all of his medications in order to manage his blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation.
Because of his circumstances, Eric was able to join our job training program and work on campus. Eric committed himself to walking our campus every day, and within 6 months he lost 70 pounds! Eric was able to stop taking his pain medicine, and he even took up a second job working security at Securitas. With the savings he collected, Eric bought a vehicle to travel to his new job on the weekends, and when his time in our job training program ended, he already had that job secured. Eric was quickly promoted to a site supervisor within a few months! Eric has joined a gym to continue improving his health, and his therapist with ARcare has helped him stay disciplined and focused on his goals.
Eric feels mentally and emotionally stronger than ever and has used that strength to mend many relationships with in friends and family. In October, Eric moved up to our Family Housing program where he enjoys more independence and privacy. Eric plans on completing the full two years in our housing programs and is already working on securing a housing voucher for his exit! ! Eric has been diligent about taking the courses offered in the Career Center, which has reinforced old financial practices and given him new ones so that he can remain financially healthy after leaving Our House.
This time around, Our House was the perfect place for Eric to turn his life around. His new, positive attitude combined with tackling his finances, employment, and physical and mental health all in one place has left Eric with a bright outlook on life and the confidence that he will never be homeless again.