Columbus House, Inc.

“It’s nice to have a home. But I wouldn’t be here right now if it weren’t for Columbus House.”

“That’s wonderful, that’s such good news. It’s needed.”

“I think everything has changed for the positive. I have time to sit back and do an art piece without feeling like I have to get it done in a day. I have time to think, to reflect, to get some direction. There are so many things to be grateful for.”

“It’s a privilege to live in this house. It’s not just a room, it’s a lot of things. It’s a community, it’s a family, it’s us learning how to live a lot better.”

“It’s good to know I have a place to come back and lay down when I don’t feel good.”

“Finally, after I got here, my life seemed to even out. People are giving me the right resources.”

“I was extremely grateful as my case manager gave me my keys. I knew that I could stay here. This was my room and I did not have to leave.”

“I can smile now. I feel safer knowing my children and I can sleep in a comfortable environment.”

“I say thank you every day to my counselors.”

“People really want to work with you and help you when you let them know you really want to do something with your life.”

“As soon as I say ‘I need help’ everyone is working with me.”

“I can smile now. I feel safer knowing that my children and I can sleep in a comfortable environment where we can get the help we need to be hopeful for our future.”

““I was being released. If I had slept outside that night, I was going to get high. She made sure I didn’t.””

““She didn’t let me down once, it was awesome.””

““Without you guys I’d still be in the hole and living with rats.””

“I didn't think I had the will to survive this but they showed me that no matter what I'm going through, they're here for me. That means a lot.”

“Things are starting to fall into place. Columbus House gives me structure. When I have structure in my life, I do better. I do well when I don't have idle time, when I'm working or with my family, or attending meetings. I go to church on Sundays when I can. I do whatever I’m told – help with a meal, clean the bathroom. I know that it's time to give back.”

“And Columbus House will have played a big role. Not just because they provide shelter but because they provide more. They integrate everything. They know it’s the combination of housing and counseling and treatment programs and goal setting. With all that in place, you can’t lose, if you’re willing.”

“Something I value about Columbus House is that they really care, I see it in all the people I’ve met. A big part of my recovery has been being with people who really follow through. Columbus House staff do that.”

“The staff pay real close attention to you and take you step by step. I feel very supported. I’ve never had that before.”

“Case managers are great… They walked with me each step of the way, keeping me encouraged. At times I felt like giving up, at times I felt like it wasn’t going to happen, and they told me keep my head up, keep pressing forward. And before I knew it, they were like – you’re next on the list for housing, and I was so excited.”