“I’ve got a place to lay my head that I can call my own. That’s huge for me!” -Tim
A Turning Point: Tim’s Release From Prison
After spending 22 years behind bars, Tim’s release from prison marked a turning point in his life. But he struggled to find stable housing upon his release. With no place to call home, he relied on his friends. And he was grateful for his friend’s support. But he felt like a burden. He needed an opportunity to regain stability in his life. So he connected with Goodwill’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. And his life changed.
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
SSVF helps veterans, like Tim, overcome obstacles to rebuild their lives. They have a focus on rapid rehousing. But they offer more services than housing help. They partner with other community programs like Healthcare for Homeless Veterans so program participants can get the mental and physical healthcare they need.
SSVF recognized Tim’s need for stable housing and supportive services while he transitioned back into society. They understood the challenges that he faced and sprang into action to find stable housing options for him. They got Tim into transitional housing, a stepping stone toward achieving long-term stability.
While Tim lived in the transitional housing, he enrolled in treatment programs to support his sobriety. And he gained full-time employment. This was a big step toward financial stability and independence.
Hope for the Future
With time, perseverance, and the support of Goodwill, Tim’s circumstances began to change for the better. Then, Goodwill found an apartment for Tim. He moved out of the transitional housing and moved into his own home. To make sure that Tim had a warm and comfortable start to his new chapter in life, Goodwill provided him with a “welcome home” package. This package included essential household items like linens, a vacuum, dishware, cookware, and cleaning supplies.
Finding stable housing for someone in need is just the first step toward their new independence. Not only did Tim gain stable housing, but he could make it feel like a home. This gave him a sense of belonging and hope for the future.
From Prison to Peace
Tim was immensely grateful for the support he got from Goodwill. His stable housing gave him the foundation for a peaceful transition into the next phase of his life. Without Goodwill’s help, Tim said, “I’d be on the streets [with] no place to lay my head [and] no place to get it together.”
The journey from prison to peace is often long and challenging. But organizations like Goodwill exist to lend a hand-up to people like Tim. Goodwill’s SSVF program serves as an emblem of hope and compassion to those who need it most.
Tim’s story serves as a testament to the life-changing impact of Goodwill’s services. Now, Tim stands tall, proud of his achievements, and grateful for the opportunity to forge a new path. With Goodwill by his side, Tim has been able to lay the foundation for a future full of promise and possibility.
Discover more about our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program.