By the time he was 19, Leroy knew that his curiosity and drive would take him far in life. So he joined the Marine Corps, where he was able to experience the world – and where he became a father, too.
Following his service, Leroy tried to adjust back to civilian life, but challenges, including PTSD impacted his transition. Without the support he needed to heal, Leroy ended up serving time.
“After I got out of the service…it all piled up,” he says. “And then it was hard to get resources, hard to get help. I needed help.”
When he was released, Leroy began seeking the resources he needed, not only to heal himself but also create a more stable life for his three children.
First and foremost, Leroy needed to find a stable job in order to regain custody of his children. After moving mountains to find a job that could fit his needed requirements, he found the right fit at Presbyterian Night Shelter.
As a member on our maintenance team, Leroy was able to get his feet underneath him. His incredible work ethic was noted right away. It was apparent that Leroy cared deeply for his children.
Leroy was introduced to our Family and Individual Rapid Exit Program (FIRE), which provided the crucial housing assistance that he needed to focus on his children and create a safe environment for them.
“They provided me with my deposit, my first three months of rent. The provided the furniture and stuff into the unity, which is a blessing for me,” Leroy says, explaining how the FIRE program helped him settle into a new home.
Leroy built a stronger and more hopeful future; now his home is lively with his joyful children. Sharing a word of encouragement inspired by Presbyterian Night Shelter, Leroy says, “there’s always another day when you just get up and try. Don’t give up!”
