“If you don’t have a real home, you can’t get yourself on track again.”
That’s Brett, who lives at the Tally Ho, a Cool Aid supportive housing site. He’s talking about getting ready to move into his apartment in our new Crosstown development that will offer both affordable and supportive units.
“I’ve been at the Tally Ho for over six years,” Brett says. “It’s been a long journey and I can’t wait to make a fresh start.” Brett used to work in construction. “I got in too deep, putting in 54 hours a week. My boss took advantage of me. He didn’t pay any overtime. Then, I had serious problems with my back and my mental health issues only got worse.”
Brett lost his apartment and ended up sleeping in his truck. He stayed at Cool Aid’s Rock Bay Landing Shelter before coming to Tally Ho. He says, “I get a lot of help at Tally Ho, like an evening meal. The mobile clinic comes by, so I can see a doctor and get medication for my back. The staff is on hand to help with government documents and they helped me apply for disability assistance. Plus, I can talk to them – I’ve only started dealing with my mental health issues in the last couple of years.”
Brett is looking forward to cooking in his own kitchen in his Crosstown home and enjoying common areas with his fellow residents. He says, “I’ll be part of a community, not someone stigmatized for living in a motel. It’s a great feeling knowing I’ll never have to worry about my rent going up and being homeless again. If not for Cool Aid, I’d still be living in my truck. I want to say thank you to everyone who’s stepped up to help me.”
Jess Thornbury, frontline supervisor at Tally Ho, adds, “I’m super excited that Brett and all our residents are moving into the homes and community they deserve. I’d like our donors to know that their hard-earned dollars are being used for thoughtful, innovative projects like Crosstown. Thank you for making a huge difference!”
Together, we’re changing lives.