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Sandy Jeffers, Jerry and Jeffer’s niece presenting a picture of Jerry as Santa giving “gifts of sobriety” to his cats 

 

 One Man’s Journey…

Jerry was living outside at a homeless camp, drowning his depression in alcohol and feeling hopeless.  He had given up on ever having a productive life, until one day he was convinced to visit Pathway. He was intoxicated, crying, embarrassed and ashamed. He was afraid that if he stayed at Pathway, someone “more deserving” wouldn’t get a bed. He was also afraid that if he left his friend at the camp, his friend would freeze to death because he wasn’t strong enough to carry firewood. Jerry even worried that his stray cats would starve. The outreach worker promised to check on Jerry’s friend and feed his cats. After more encouragement, Jerry finally agreed to stay.  He has been clean and sober ever since and it will be two years December 22, 2015. Jerry got a job, which was required to graduate from Pathway-I, our  entry level transitional supportive housing program, to phase-II, our semi-independent living program across the street. Jerry is working toward his own safe, affordable, substance-free apartment at Pathway-IV, V or VI, where he can live permanently so long as he remains sober, stable and self-sufficient. He also mentors the new residents just starting their journey at Pathway-I.  On November 11, 2014, Jerry’s friend from the camp also moved into Pathway. He is approaching his first year recovery anniversary sober and stable.  Your support matters to us….

Pathway provides safe, affordable, substance-free housing for nearly 100 homeless men, women, and families. Each year we house an average of 150 participants within six programs. Pathway-I, the entry level program, where participants begin their journey, serves an average of 50 to 75 residents; providing over 8,000 units (24 hour period) of structured, transitional living services  with over 16,000 meals, 4,500 hours of support services, and 1,500 hours of community living groups. In addition, 90% exit the program with an income, 70% exit  stable and substance-free and 55% are placed in permanent housing. Over 1600 Hoosiers impacted by homelessness, addiction and mental illness have been served since Pathway first began, with over half successfully placed in permanent housing. Within Pathway’s six housing programs, over 30,849 units of service (24 hour period) are provided.