This wasn’t the way he pictured his life. And it came to a point where Gregory said, “I can’t do this anymore.” After living without adequate shelter on and off for years and mounting medical issues including heart disease, he received a referral to Catholic Charities Hawai‘i (CCH) on Kaua‘i.
After working with his case manager, Gregory was enrolled in the Housing First program. “There was no judgement,” says Gregory. “The staff made me feel so good.” CCH’s Housing First program at CCH’s Kaua‘i community office helps chronically homeless individuals move into and maintain affordable permanent housing and provides support and tools for self-sufficiency.
“Five months later I had an apartment, it was a blessing,” says Gregory. “It meant so much to me and I finally had a place where I could safely store all my tools I use for work.”
“It made me want to do better,” says Gregory.
Since moving into a real home of his own, Gregory noticed his medical issues have improved. He is even able to take hot showers daily, something that means a lot to him. Gregory continues to work on his health, employment, and permanent housing needs.
He wants to tell all those entering the program to, “follow the process because CCH’s Housing First really helps people, but you have to do your part too.” Gregory is self-motivated, which has really helped him.
He is grateful for the follow through and help from CCH and finds ways to give back. “I haven’t had an easy life but I’ve learned things about people. So I like to give back- I do whatever I can to help others.”
Please consider making a donation to Catholic Charities Hawai‘i. Your donation is essential in offering opportunity and help to change the lives of so many in our community.
