Joey’s Story

At UCAN homeless shelter, Joey’s journey to self-sufficiency began.

Joey found his way to the UCAN homeless shelter after losing his housing. Upon arrival, he was greeted with compassion and a sense of community. The shelter provided him with a safe place to stay, nutritious meals, and access to essential services that would lay the foundation for his journey towards self-sufficiency.

UCAN’s case worker and operations staff provided Joey with support and encouragement as he navigated his way back to becoming self-sufficient. Joey, who is a veteran, connected with services for veterans which help move him forward.

Joey was frustrated not to be able to return to the community he left but realized that UCAN provided him with a new beginning. He turned this frustration into resolve and as he stated, “how do I move forward?” In addition, the staff kept Joey focused on his goals of finding a decent job and an apartment. “Everyone on staff at UCAN kept encouraging me,” Joey stated. With the support of veteran’s organizations, local service agencies and UCAN staff Joey found employment at Blackstone Advanced Technology and continues working there. He is thankful for his company believing in him. Now working fulltime and with the help of the VA, Joey has located his own apartment and has transitioned out of UCAN.

Joey’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and determination, it is possible to overcome even the most challenging circumstances. He continues to drop by and share with other guests and the following statement is what he shares with others, “never give up, don’t look back, keep moving forward and never lose your self-value.”
Joey’s transformation from a resident at the UCAN homeless shelter to a self-sufficient individual with a job and an apartment is a story of hope and resilience. His journey highlights the importance of supportive services and the impact they can have on someone’s life. Joey’s success is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, showing that with perseverance and support, a better future is within reach.