I’ll be honest -this experience has been more than just a place to stay. It’s been a moment in my life that’s forced me to slow down, reflect, and really face myself. I came here carrying a lot, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. And while it hasn’t always been easy, being here gave me space 1 didn’t know I needed. There were moments I felt stretched, moments I felt seen, and moments I wasn’t sure what to feel at all. But that’s what growth looks like sometimes. It’s not always pretty, but it’s real. I’m grateful for the roof, yes -but I’m more grateful for the chance to rebuild what’s under it: me. Thank you for giving me that chance.
Personally, the shelter has been a special space for me – it’s where I started finding myself again. I’ve had moments of peace and clarity here, and I’m truly grateful for that…
My time here has had its ups and downs, just like any real growth process. And with the mindset I have now – the one I’ve been working so hard to rebuild I’ve come to appreciate those moments. Even the hard ones.
I’ve been given the space to breathe and understand myself- and to finally see what I’m worth. For me, it became something like family – checking in, showing up, offering support when 1 needed it most. Whether it was help figuring things out or support with childcare, I’ve always had someone to turn to. TIS gave me something I didn’t even know I needed: inner peace.
I’m originally from across the bridge, so this environment was new to me. But I’ve grown to appreciate the quiet nights and the positive attitudes. This was a season of solitude – and I was okay with that. I’ve never felt like just another case. I’ve felt seen, heard, and supported through my growth. For that, I’m truly grateful. On the very first day I moved in, I told myself: “This won’t be easy, but it ‘II be worth it.”
And it has been – every step of the way. I started my journey with Fran as my case manager, and now Kirstie. Each of them supported me in different ways with their own style, and I’m thankful for both. I came in focused on survival, and somewhere along the way, I realized … I was being given the chance to rebuild. Not just my life, but my inner self. I’ve used this time to feel my emotions, to reassess my values, and to welcome the blessings that are coming my way. My relationship with my family has improved. I’ve become a more aware mother and a more supportive daughter. I’ve had the space to breathe – and because of that, I’ve been able to fundamentally revamp what was, and start creating what’s next.
I want to thank you for taking a chance on me and my daughter – for not only providing us with resources, but for seeing us as people who matter. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity you’ve given me and for the feedback and guidance along the way.
I truly feel like I was able to bloom at TIS. This place holds a special part of my heart, and I’ll carry it with me always. I want to acknowledge the long hours, skipped lunch breaks, and silent tears that may come at the end of your day – I see that, and I thank you for showing up anyway. I wish you no stress, but I know the weight comes with your purpose – because you care. Thank you for making your purpose in life helping others find theirs – even when it drains you. My life has been changed in the most blissful way because of the care woven throughout this program. It’s easy to overlook the small things when you’re just trying to survive- things like toilet paper, towels, soap, clean plates and cups, even help with medication. But those small things added up to something big for me. Thank you for supporting me not just out of duty, but out of choice. That alone has meant everything. Thank you for helping me with becoming.