United Housing Connections: Harold’s Story
Peers
Harold spent most of his days panhandling to support his substance abuse until he connected with Miracle Hill Ministries, Greater Greenville Mental Health, and United Housing Connections to find real change.
It was alcoholism that Harold says led to his life on the streets of Greenville, SC. Finding common ground was how Harold began to find a life in recovery and a way out of the trauma of homelessness. Harold shared his struggles with an outreach specialist who had also experienced homelessness and addiction. Trust with someone in recovery was built which led to bringing hope to the conversation.
"Every day is a success," Chris Rubio (formerly with United Housing Connections) said. "Being able to be out here to be a voice of hope and to show him that recovery is possible because I've done it. That's a win."
The relationship built with people from founding partners of the Greenville Homeless Alliance helped Harold find a supportive community and end his experience of homelessness. Harold connected with Greater Greenville Mental Health and made the decision to go to an emergency shelter through Miracle Hill Ministries Greenville Rescue Mission which led him to enter a rehabilitation program for his alcoholism. There he found access to support from a 12-step program and a sponsor who he often leans on to stay sober.
Outreach played a role in opening the door for Harold to the resources and organizations needed to end his homelessness. Safe and stable shelter with access to mental health services is a key component to creating the ability to address the root causes of homelessness.
Currently, Harold is living in housing managed by United Housing Connections while he continues his job search. He has received education in finance and vocational rehabilitation and it is his long-term goal to one day reunite with his family in Virginia.
“There is always help for people who are ready to take steps toward stability and live a life in recovery,” shares Harold.
To learn more about United Housing Connections, visit https://www.unitedhousingconnections.org/
Outreach doesn’t mean the goal is to get everyone into a shelter. The word “home,” to Rubio, doesn’t even mean a physical roof over your head.
Home is security. Home is self-respect. Home is humanity. Home is the place where people get their sense of self back, on their own terms.