I spent 5 months at Casa Esperanza in 2006 - 2007 .During that time i was able, through my disability payments, to pay rent of 300 per month and the rest of the money I received was placed in a savings account so that I could save money to move out on my own. During that time I was guaranteed a bed, food 3 times a day and access to counselors, doctors and nurses. My primary counselor was attentive, available and compassionate to my needs. \r
While at the shelter I became ill with a fungal infection of 4 cm mass in my right lung called cocciomyocosis that hospitalized me for 5 days. The staff (Kitty and several others) were attentive and called an ambulance as soon as the doctors knew I was in crisis. \r
I will never forget the care I received while I was a resident. I will ever be grateful for the safe place to lay my head at night so that I could arise in the morning with hope for a new day. Even though some of the residents could be a challenge, my lesson was to be non judgmental and I learned compassion for the less fortunate. \r
I was sober one year whenI left there with 900 dollars in savings and was able to check into a sober living womans home where I then stayed for another year gaining much enrichment in my new life. \r
If I ever find myself in the situation of no where to go again I would definityley count on Casa Esperanza for my survival. It is all about attitude. Gratitude to have a roof over my head and a safe place to lay my head and all I had to do was honor myself others and the rules. I have not had to take a drink since then. \r
My love for Casa Esperanza has allowed me the opportunity to make anonymous donations to the shelter however meager. \r
Thanks and I hope that if I am ever in that situation again I can count on you and that you never change.
Pros: womens area monitored and respected
Cons: too many who don't want to change
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