Stories

Deep in addiction, Marlaina found herself at rock bottom. Like many of those we serve, she was homeless, wandering each day and night with everything she owned in her car, addicted to meth and heroin, and just 3 days away from giving birth.

Growing up, Hannia survived a chaotic home life. When Hannia was just 4 years old, her alcoholic father and her teenage mother were unable to care for her so they sent her to live with her aunt and uncle.

Unemployed, drinking heavily, addicted to drugs, and surviving on social services, Ed had been homeless on and off for over 10 years– sometimes sleeping in his car, in a tent near the freeway, or on the streets.

"I felt like a whole person again," says J.T., when he moved into Volunteers of America's (VOA) transitional housing program as a newly emancipated foster youth. J.T. entered the program after living in the park and couch-surfing for two months. "Some people had parents or people to stay with, but I didn't have anybody."

Beyond shelter, Volunteers of America (VOA) works with clients like Beverly to help identify and address trauma or experiences that may negatively affect their ability to get off the streets and back on their feet.

Nan had spent years trying to recover from a life of abuse, turning to drugs to mask her pain and forget her past. Eventually, Nan’s drug use spiraled out of control and led her into homelessness.

Lenora had been homeless and alone for most of her life. As a child, Lenora and her siblings lived with their mother until financial hardship caused them to lose their home.

​Greg Waldron, who served in the Army, didn’t have the easiest transition upon returning home. Married with two children, the family found themselves homeless and living in their truck.

Running a marathon is tough. Unfortunately, Lynda is a single mom that feels her life has been a very long and painful marathon. Somewhere, deep down Lynda knew she wanted to get sober. She wanted to be a better mother to her girls than her own mother was to her.

"My son and I are more than grateful for the Blessings. My son is at a loss for words, he is happy, he feels like this is a fresh start for us. I find this opportunity a great blessing."