Dan Was An Abusive Alcoholic.

You helped change his story.

Dan, 37, and his girlfriend, Stephanie, have been together than ten years.  Four years ago Dan lost his job.  He fell into a depression, became an alcoholic, and started using drugs.  He became violent and verbally abusive. 

One night last May Dan became angry and ripped a chunk of hair out of Stephanie’s head.  Stephanie called Staci at HOPE’s Legal Outreach office and filed an Order for Protection.  She joined HOPE’s “Battered Women’s Support Group” and connected with other local women who shared similar stories.  She cut all ties with Dan.

Dan continued using and drinking.  He lived on the street and slept in a tent.  Another homeless man living at the same “camp” by the river robbed of his clothing and valuables.  After five months of being homeless and hungry, Dan finally had an epiphany:  if he wanted a better life he needed to change.  He needed to be clean.  He needed a job.  He needed his life back.  He needed help.

In October, Dan met with JoAnn from HOPE’s Supportive Housing Services program.  He hadn’t showered in weeks, was wearing dirty clothes, and was very depressed.  JoAnn arranged for a shower, clean clothes, and found a place for the night.  Then she helped him secure chemical and mental health treatment and a network of supportive adults that would help Dan in his recovery. 

Dan came to HOPE Coalition daily.  He sat in the lobby, used the phone and newspaper to find a job, and talked with the staff.  After a week of searching, Dan secured a local management job and found an apartment.  He accessed HOPE’s Community Care Fund for support until he got his first paycheck and could move in. 

It has been three months, and Dan has stayed clean and sober, employed, and in his apartment.  He reconnected with Stephanie and they are attending counseling together and separately.  He is on the road to recovery and your support made it possible.