Anthony is a former client of our Homeless Outreach Program. He began having trouble with his eyesight in 2012 and lost his job because of his disability. Anthony was diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease and was shocked to learn that he also had Hepatitis and HIV. The multitude of health issues led to Anthony losing his housing, which is the unfortunate result for many of our clients.
“I cried for three months straight.”
Anthony was homeless and as result was not adhering to his medication schedule. He became socially isolated, was not eating well and was unable to take steps further his education – his ultimate goal. After three years of living in shelters, Anthony was finally connected to Fife House’s Homeless Outreach Program in 2015, which helps hundreds of people like him each year, linking them to organizations that can help them break the cycle of homelessness.
“I don’t want to think about where I would be without Fife House.”
In July 2017, Anthony successfully graduated from a nine-month stay in Fife House’s Transitional Housing Program. During his time at Fife House, Anthony adhered to his medication schedule. He also gained confidence in navigating the neighbourhood, using transportation and getting groceries. Now he cooks healthy vegetarian meals, in line with his diet. After leaving the Transitional Housing Program, Anthony received a permanent unit with Fife House in downtown Toronto where he continues to receive support and ongoing case management.
He also fulfilled his education goals. One of our Case Managers helped him with the process of applying to post-secondary education. Today, I am proud to tell you that Anthony is enrolled in a writing program at George Brown College and begins his second semester in January. He continues to thrive physically and socially and has built a support network.
WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are seeing more clients homeless longer, sleeping in the rough longer, causing fractured connections to care, supports and community.
The ongoing loss of entry-level affordable housing stock, along with increased social housing waiting lists, coupled with skyrocketing rents, has impacted our ability to find affordable housing for our most marginalized clients. Clients like Anthony.
Anthony is proof that your generosity creates lasting change
