Before coming to Goodwill, Deborah was in a very hard and unsafe situation. She had been in a relationship where she was treated badly, both mentally and physically. During this time, she spent some time in jail and later went to treatment to get help for addiction.
After she became clean and sober, Deborah knew she didn’t want to live that way anymore. She moved into an Oxford House, which is a safe place to live while staying sober. That’s where she met her Goodwill Case Manager and began working on her goals.
Through Goodwill’s Foundational Community Supports Program, Deborah got more than just support, she got real help. Her case manager helped her get to court and even spoke on her behalf. They also helped her get an ID and apply for Social Security benefits again.
Deborah faced ups and downs. She left the Oxford House and spent some time living on the streets. But with help from her 12-step program and her case manager, she was able to find housing and move into her own apartment.
Now, Deborah’s life has changed in a big way. She and her sister are starting a business to sell their own natural cleaning products. She’s also planning to go back to school to earn a Welding Certificate and take classes in Automotive Mechanics.
“I was stuck back at ground zero with no motivation to do anything with my life,” Deborah said. “I am moving toward the life I never thought was possible for me. I’m building a relationship with my children that I never thought would happen. Thank you, Goodwill!”
Deborah’s story shows that with determination and the right support, a chance at a better life is possible for anyone.