Living at Shelter Now has been an invaluable experience. Not only is it a supportive environment free of judgment, it is also a safe and secure place to live. It is important to me that the community understands the difference that Shelter Now has made in my life and how programs like this will make a difference in the lives of many others.
My name is David Bent, My story is a success to the staff at Shelter Now. To me it is not so much a success but a stepping stone to being a responsible, constructive and productive member of society; after years of personal neglect and battles with addictions and personal demons. When I arrived at Shelter Now 10 months ago I was alone, afraid, but determined to overcome the odds. With a solid foundation laid down prior and with the assistance of Shelter Now it helped me build the structure that my life has become. Shelter now staff was always there to assist in my journey. Sonia and Tina were there for me and pointed me in the direction of a support network in the community. I swam, I laughed, I exercised, I participated…which is a fundamental and necessary part of the program here. My gratitude is overwhelming for the support and care that is provided here. If Shelter Now needs me in any way I will be there for them always as they were for me. God Bless you. May your program always be there for people in need.
I would like to extend my thanks and appreciation for all your efforts as well as the efforts and support of your staff for one of my parolees. When the individual in question was released from one of our federal institutions he had VERY limited support; he was virtually homeless. Your agency came along side of this individual and gave him WONDERFUL accommodations at your facility on Hartman Drive in Midland. In the 9 months your staff has been involved with this individual he has become increasingly independent and more confident in himself and his abilities. This is my first encounter with your agency and I am extremely grateful for all your support for this individual which in turn has supported the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) and also contributed to the protection of society by assisting this individual with a truly successful reintegration. This individual’s sentence is complete as of this date: 2010-06-30 and I know that you will continue to be involved with him in your community. This individual is now living by himself in an apartment which you also found for him and he is keeping quite busy with some of the jobs you have also found for him; maintenance work for his landlord as well as mowing lawns. You are also aware of this individual’s appreciation and thanks to you and your staff. Once again, thank you to you and your staff on behalf of myself and the CSC Barrie Parole. I look forward to working with you and your agency again in the event I have other individuals in similar circumstances.
Sonia, Community Support Worker Thank you for accepting me into Shelter now. After leaving an abusive marriage, I needed a quiet little place to call my own. Each day I get more self confidence. I like to drop by the office to discuss my goals and get perspective on how to reach them. I wish other towns had the opportunity to have a “Shelter Now” to get people back on their feet. Your programs have helped me to “Empower myself.” I feel like I am making huge strides daily for self awareness and security.
Sonia helped me cope with my addiction problems. It was easy to be honest with her, she never judged me. She kept me accountable for my choices, habits, money management and most of all helped me with me healthy thinking.
Sonia has helped me through some very hard times. She would that the time to listen to you and give you lots of feedback. You can’t ask for a better lady.
My experience with Tina has been wonderful. She is always asking if we need anything and is there to check up on you if there is any problems. Although I have only been here a few months she is always to be found if there are any questions.
Tina is a joy to be around, very accepting and understanding. She has worked a lot of late nights with Community Kitchen, she genuinely cares about the residents of Shelter Now.