Back to Work—in a Big Way

After 5 years on the street, unemployed, and in debt,…

‘Al’ is back in his trade, completing a contract in a $5 million dollar home. The GSS CAT team is a proud part of this impressive transformation.

When the CAT team welcomed Al as a client over a year ago, he had three goals: securing employment and mental health supports and re-connecting with his young adult children in Quebec. His focus was on renewing links with his children. Al regularly spoke of not being the greatest father and not thinking he had much to offer his kids. He often said he wanted to go visit them in person but couldn’t afford to travel.

Paid work seemed the solution in addition to the important physical and mental health appointments that Al diligently kept. But it had been 5 years since Al worked and, after years on the street, debts had built up. So, what could be done about employment?

Because Al had experience in drywalling, that was the most promising path. But he needed tools to bid on jobs. Research showed those tools weren’t funded so Al decided to start saving money. CAT supported him with this goal and, one day, he had enough saved to buy those critical tools. The next step was helping Al advertise his services on Kijiji. Within months he was working and paying off the debts he constantly worried about.

Since graduating from CAT, Al stays in touch, sending texts about the jobs he’s doing, how proud he is of the work and the money he is now making. He’s been repaying his debts, starting to save, and even sends his children money. He heads up a small crew and says his mental health has improved tremendously. Als says he can’t thank CAT enough for helping him build his confidence and get back to work.

In a recent text, Al included photos of his most recent contract, this one in a home valued at $5 million. What makes Al most happy about these amazing changes? His renewed role as a father. Every few days, he talks with his children by phone and video chat and plans to see them in person this summer. It sounds like Al has ‘super-achieved’ his goals.

Al’s main supports at CAT were Danielle Willier, Family Support Specialist and Jeremy Layton, Mental Health Therapist. Danielle admires Al’s commitment and acknowledges the importance of program support in this success story: “I’m proud of him and the steps he took throughout services! It’s amazing the things one can do when they feel supported and put their mind to something. It also helps that we have an amazing Manager who believes in our people and will try and support any way she can. Truly life changing!”

Thanks to Danielle Willier, Family Support Specialist at CAT for this good news story!