Imagine you live in a tent in the middle of the woods. You have no food so you steal in order to eat. You have a paralyzing drug addiction that is consuming your life, and if this wasn't enough, your family lives with you and they all suffer from the same addiction. Unfortunately, for William B. this was not just a figment of his imagination, it was very real for him.

About 3 years ago, William B. along with his mother, two brothers and younger sister made a decision to overcome their drug addiction and change their lives. William began his search for help at the JHR Homeless Resource Center emergency shelter.

At the shelter, William B. talked to a JHR Case Manger who presented him with the opportunity to start his recovery at Carrington House. Upon his entrance into the Carrington House, William was a little apprehensive and remained extremely quiet, but he knew he was there for a reason so he kept his mind open and his hope alive.

He was initially impressed by the cleanliness of the house, as well as the peacefulness and structure it provided for him. Even though William's cravings for drugs would creep up on him every now and then, he could see more clearly. He was getting good sleep and learning coping strategies everyday that helped him resist the urges he had. After a couple of months in the house, William began to open up to the other residents and he found camaraderie and a community of fighters that helped him build a foundation for himself.

Today William has quit drugs and even cigarettes, runs on a weekly basis and is going to college at BCCC in the general studies program. His aspiration is to go to a four year college and one day work in the Human Service field.

When asked the following question:  "years from now when you are successful and Carrington House is just a piece of your past, what will you remember about your experience here", he responded — "The love and support of the residents and staff".