Since September 2023 Kristen has thrived as a resident of Arundel House of Hope’s Family Project, a transitional housing program for mothers in recovery from addiction. With the support of the Family Project Kristen has created a secure and hopeful future for herself and her two children, ages 13 and 6.
Before coming to Arundel House of Hope Kristen experienced a setback in her recovery journey, having a brief relapse in 2022. Seeking treatment at an inpatient program and then moving into a Family Project home became a turning point for her. Now, with over 18 months of sobriety, Kristen is committed to staying on track. The program "helps me stay on my straight, narrow path," Kristen shares. She finds support and encouragement from classes offered by AHOH, support groups, and her AHOH case manager, Asia—all of which have been key to helping her focus on her goals.
Kristen’s time at The Family Project has provided a stable foundation for her and her children. "I moved a lot. Even as a child, I moved a lot, and when I was in my active addiction, I was constantly moving from here to there. So, stability is the biggest thing [the program] has given me," she shares.
With secure housing, Kristen was able to maintain a steady job as a health assistant in the public-school system. When the school year was coming to an end she applied to work as a counselor at a local summer camp. She was invited to apply for the camp director position—a challenge she was simultaneously nervous and excited about. "I thought, ‘Oh, this will be a little challenge for me, but I'm willing to try and achieve my goals,’" Kristen says. After multiple interviews, she was offered the job. Now, as the director of a summer camp, Kristen oversees activities for children in first through sixth grades, including swimming, canoeing, field trips, and arts and crafts.
With a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and forensics, Kristen is setting her sights on entering the criminal justice field, possibly as a parole officer for juveniles or within the forensics unit of the police department. She also dreams of opening a recovery house for parents with children one day, inspired by her personal experience and the recognition of how crucial, yet scarce, support programs for parents are.
Kristen plans to stay at The Family Project for two years so she can continue to work on her goals, especially financial ones. She is committed to saving money, paying off debt, and improving her credit score, all while taking advantage of the program’s services. When asked what advice she would give to her past self, Kristen replied: "Have patience. It’s okay to make mistakes and to learn from your mistakes as well."
Kristen expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities Arundel House of Hope has provided. "I am very grateful and very happy that I had this opportunity. It opens up a lot of doors for me. I appreciate the program and everybody that's helped me get to this point and is still continuing to help me in my journey."
